Thousands of households in Cambridgeshire are set to receive a financial boost to help with essential shopping, as a new round of government-funded support payments opens for applications.
What is the £110 Household Support Fund Payment?
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is providing funding for £110 lump sum payments to eligible residents through the local council. This grant, known as the Household Support Fund (HSF), is designed to assist those most affected by the ongoing cost of living pressures. It is a grant, not a loan, meaning it does not need to be paid back.
Cambridgeshire Council is administering the scheme locally. Successful applicants will receive the support in the form of electronic vouchers, which can be spent at four major supermarket chains: Asda, Morrisons, Sainsbury's, and Tesco. It is important to note that only Asda vouchers can be used for online shopping; the others are for in-store use.
Who is Eligible and How to Apply
Applications are open from 1 April 2025 until 31 March 2026, but there is only one award available per household during this period. To qualify, applicants must meet specific criteria set by Cambridgeshire Council.
Key eligibility requirements include:
- Living within the Cambridgeshire local authority area.
- Having total savings and investments of £16,000 or less.
- Having a household income below a threshold identified by the council.
Applicants must complete an online form on the council's website and provide evidence to support their claim. This evidence can include:
- Three months of bank statements.
- Recent payslips.
Important Warnings and Next Steps
The council has issued a stern warning regarding fraud. Providing false information or evidence in an application is an offence under the Fraud Act 2006. The authority has stated it will investigate any suspected fraud, which could lead to criminal proceedings.
Residents who believe they are eligible are urged to apply through the official Cambridgeshire Council website. The council reminds people that if they have already received an award since April 2025, they should not apply again, as only one payment is permitted per household in this funding round.
This targeted support aims to provide immediate relief for food and essential costs, offering a vital lifeline for families and individuals struggling with their weekly budget.
