Households in a London borough who have yet to receive financial help during the ongoing crisis could be in line for a new £500 payment. Camden Council has confirmed that its Cost of Living Fund is providing emergency support, with a focus on those who have not previously received an award.
Who is eligible for the £500 payment?
The scheme, which is part of the Government-funded Household Support Fund (HSF), is targeted at residents facing a severe financial emergency. To qualify, applicants must meet several key criteria set by the council.
You must have lived in the London Borough of Camden for at least six weeks. You need to be the main tenant or the person responsible for paying the Council Tax. Applicants must be aged over 16 and living independently, or be 18 years old and over.
A crucial requirement is that you are experiencing severe financial hardship and have not reached the maximum number of awards allowed for the current period. This makes first-time applicants a priority for the support.
What you need for your application
Applying for the fund requires specific documentation to allow the council to fully assess your situation. You will need to provide details of any benefits you currently receive. The council also requires your most recent bank statements for all current and savings accounts.
Furthermore, you should gather any available evidence of debt that is relevant to your application for support. Camden council states: "We ask for this information so we understand your financial situation and can help you get all the support you’re entitled to."
By submitting the form, you agree to the local authority reviewing your benefit calculator results and using your information as part of any support application. You also consent to your data being shared with external advice partners if a referral is necessary.
Seeking advice before you apply
The council strongly recommends seeking independent guidance before applying for new benefits or support. An online calculator is available to give an estimate of what you might be entitled to, but speaking to an adviser can ensure it is the right option for you.
Residents are advised to contact the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) Universal Credit helpline on 0800 144 8 444 for preliminary advice. This step can help clarify eligibility and ensure the application process is as smooth as possible for those in genuine need of this vital financial assistance.
