£200 Cost of Living Payments: Check Eligibility Conditions and Payment Dates

£200 Cost of Living Payments: If you live in Salford and are struggling with energy costs, there’s some good news for you. Salford City Council has confirmed that it will be giving certain residents £200 this winter to help with rising energy bills. This support is part of the Household Support Fund, a government-funded programme that gives local councils money to support residents who are facing financial difficulties.

What Is the Household Support Fund?

The Household Support Fund (HSF) is a national scheme funded by the UK Government and managed by local councils. Each council receives a budget and decides how to distribute it based on the needs of its community.

This year, Salford Council received £4.8 million to extend the fund and help local residents who are struggling to cope with rising living costs, especially with heating and food expenses.

Who Will Get the £200 Energy Support?

The £200 payment will be offered to residents in Salford who:

• Are over the age of 65, and
• Lost their Winter Fuel Payment last year, and
• May be eligible for Pension Credit, but have not yet claimed it

This scheme is known as the Winter Support Payment, and it aims to reach older residents who might be entitled to extra support but haven’t applied for benefits like Pension Credit yet.

Last year, about 92% of 3,000 eligible Salford residents received this payment.

What Other Support Is Available?

In addition to the £200 payment, Salford Council is also offering:

• Energy vouchers for residents who are struggling to heat their homes
• Supermarket vouchers to help cover food costs
• Holiday food vouchers for eligible children during school holidays
• Support for key services like housing and adult social care
• Funding for local food banks, food clubs, and community food schemes, through its VCSE (Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise) partners

This wide range of support is designed to help households that are finding it hard to afford daily essentials.

Do You Need to Be on Benefits to Apply?

No. You do not need to be claiming benefits to apply for help from the Household Support Fund. However, you will need to show evidence that you are facing financial hardship and cannot cover your essential costs.

The Assist team at Salford Council will review your application and distribute the money accordingly.

How to Apply

If you’re a Salford resident and think you might be eligible, you can apply for help through the Salford City Council website.

You’ll need to provide documents showing your income and expenses, and explain why you need help. If approved, you could receive direct payments, vouchers, or other forms of support depending on your situation.

A Message from Salford’s Mayor

Salford City Mayor, Paul Dennett, said the Household Support Fund has made a big difference to local families. He said it has helped people afford food, heat their homes in winter, and support children during school holidays.

He added: “We’re committed to using this funding to keep that support going. I urge any resident facing financial difficulties to explore the support available.”

If you’re a Salford resident who lost your Winter Fuel Payment or are struggling with energy costs, now is the time to apply for help. The £200 support can help ease some of the pressure this winter. You don’t need to be on benefits, but you do need to show that you’re facing financial hardship. Visit the Salford City Council website today to apply and take one step closer to staying warm and supported this winter.

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