With the cost of living rising across the UK, many families are finding it harder to afford basic needs like food, electricity, and water. Prices are going up, and many people are feeling the pressure. But if you’re living in Birmingham and struggling to pay your bills, there is help available.
The Household Support Fund (HSF) is a scheme run by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). It gives money to local councils so they can help people in need. The latest round of this support started on April 1, 2025, and Birmingham City Council has confirmed that it will soon begin accepting new applications from residents.
What is the Household Support Fund (HSF)?
The Household Support Fund is a government-backed scheme that helps families who are struggling to pay for essentials like food, energy, water, and other household goods. The money is given to local councils, which then decide how to use it based on the needs of people in their area.
This fund is released in different rounds, and round seven started on April 1, 2025. Each council uses the money differently, but the main goal is to help households facing financial hardship.
Birmingham’s Cost of Living Support
Birmingham City Council has announced that it will reopen its support scheme soon, following the end of the previous one on March 31, 2025. While the exact date is not confirmed yet, the council has said that applications will likely reopen in June 2025.
These grants can help people buy food, pay electricity or gas bills, and get other necessary items for their home. The payments may arrive before the official summer starts on June 21, which could offer timely support during the warmer months.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for this cost of living support from Birmingham City Council, you must meet three simple conditions:
- You must live in Birmingham.
- You must not have received a hardship grant from the council in the past 12 months.
- You must be facing financial hardship, especially related to food or energy bills.
The council checks all applications and gives priority to those who need the help the most.
How Does This Affect Your Benefits?
The best part about receiving this help is that it will not affect any other benefits you already get or are eligible to claim. So, even if you’re on Universal Credit or another support scheme, you can still apply for this fund.
What Can the Fund Be Used For?
The Household Support Fund from Birmingham City Council is meant to cover essential living costs, including:
- Food and groceries
- Electricity and gas bills
- Water bills
- Other essential home items and supplies
If you’re struggling with the rising cost of living and live in Birmingham, the Household Support Fund could provide the support you need. With the next round of funding expected to reopen in June 2025, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the Birmingham City Council website or contact them for updates. This support can ease your stress and help cover important household expenses — and it won’t affect any other benefits you receive.
FAQs
What is the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund is a government-backed scheme that provides financial help to people struggling with the cost of living. It supports essential costs like food, energy, water, and household goods.
Who can apply for the Birmingham Household Support Fund?
To apply, you must live in Birmingham, not have received a hardship grant from the council in the past 12 months, and show financial hardship, especially with food and energy costs.
When will the Birmingham fund reopen for applications?
Birmingham City Council has confirmed that new applications for the Household Support Fund will likely reopen in June 2025.
Will the Household Support Fund affect my other benefits?
No, receiving a payment from the Household Support Fund will not affect any other benefits you receive or are entitled to.
What expenses does the Birmingham hardship grant cover?
The grant helps with essential living costs such as food, electricity, gas, water bills, and other necessary household supplies.
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