The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced new summer payments to help with the rising cost of living. These payments will be made through the extended Household Support Fund and will provide financial relief to many individuals and families across the country.
Contents
DWP Cost of Living Payments
The payments are aimed at:
- Low-income families
- Pensioners
- Disabled individuals
- Care leavers
The DWP hopes to reduce some of the financial stress these groups are facing.
How Will the Payments Be Distributed?
Local authorities have the flexibility to decide how to distribute these funds. This means they can tailor the support to meet the specific needs of their communities. The fund has been extended through the summer until September to help with the cost of living crisis.
Who is Eligible for the Payments?
The DWP has set specific criteria to ensure the payments go to those most need them. Eligible individuals include:
| Eligibility Criteria |
|---|
| People with limited work capability |
| Those with earnings below the thresholds for free school meals and prescriptions |
| Recipients of the Guarantee Credit component |
| Recipients of the Savings Credit component |
| People on income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) |
| People who only receive Housing Benefits and no other forms of income support |
How Much Will the Payments Be?
The DWP provides general guidelines, but local authorities can decide the exact amounts and how to distribute the funds. This allows them to customize the support to meet the specific needs of their community. Local authorities will:
- Decide how to use their allocated funds best to support those in need.
- Data and information from the DWP will be used to identify eligible individuals and families. This includes advice and referrals from professionals like social workers, health visitors, and housing support officers.
Who Will Benefit from the Fund?
The Household Support Fund is designed to help people facing financial challenges. It aims to support a diverse group of low-income individuals, not just those receiving traditional benefits. The program will help:
- Families with children of all ages by providing essentials like food and clothing.
- Older individuals with fixed incomes manage living expenses.
- Unpaid carers who support family members without financial compensation.
- Care leavers who face unique challenges living independently.
- Disabled individuals with high medical equipment costs or increased water and transport expenses.
- Both single-person households and larger families experience financial difficulties.
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