Thousands of households in Portsmouth are being encouraged to verify their eligibility for potential support of up to £200 to assist with the cost of living. This aid is being provided by the Portsmouth City Council through the Household Support Fund, offering financial assistance to vulnerable households for expenses like groceries, utilities, and water bills.
The support varies among councils, with some offering vouchers and others providing direct cash payments. Portsmouth City Council, in particular, is granting £150 to single-person households and £200 to couples or families. To qualify for this assistance, household income must be below £935 for single adults and £1,350 for couples or families, including single-parent families.
Residents in specific postcode districts within Portsmouth are eligible for this support, and applications must be submitted by October 27, 2025, with a possibility of closure earlier if funds are fully allocated. Individuals outside Portsmouth are advised to check with their local councils for similar support through the Household Support Fund.
For instance, Wealden District Council is offering £200 payments to individuals receiving Universal Credit with additional benefits. Eligible residents can apply until September 30, 2025, if they did not receive payments in the previous round, with a second application window from October 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026.
West Berkshire Council is providing cash aid to households facing financial crises, with higher amounts allocated to larger families. Ribble Valley Borough Council, on the other hand, is distributing food vouchers to eligible households based on income criteria. Furthermore, residents living alone can receive a £200 voucher, while those in households with children may qualify for up to £500 in support.