New £90 Cost of Living Vouchers for Kent Residents
Kent County Council has announced the distribution of new £90 Cost of Living vouchers, available to households both on and not on Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) benefits. This initiative is funded through the Household Support Fund, with cash provided directly from the DWP to the local authority.
Eligibility Criteria for the Voucher Scheme
To qualify for the £90 voucher, applicants must meet specific requirements. You must be aged 16 or over and be a permanent resident within one of the 12 local authorities covered by Kent County Council. This excludes residents of Medway, Bexley, or Bromley. Additionally, you must either be in receipt of means-tested benefits or have a household income of £33,000 or less per year if not on such benefits. Importantly, households eligible for free school meals are excluded from this scheme, as they receive separate support through their child's school.
Application and Verification Process
The council will verify proof of residency using the live DWP database and may request further evidence, such as a recent bill or bank statement. Professionals applying on behalf of others must ensure the applicant meets all eligibility criteria. Only one application per household is permitted, and the council emphasizes that this funding is taxpayer money intended for those struggling with rising living costs.
Voucher Details and Redemption
If eligible, households will receive either an energy voucher or a supermarket food voucher valued at £90. These vouchers can be redeemed towards energy costs, food, and essential household items. They will be sent via email or SMS text directly from the council's voucher partner, Evouchers.com. The council urges recipients to spend the vouchers wisely on necessary items only.
Support for Families with Free School Meals
Families eligible for free school meals are not included in this voucher scheme, as they receive food vouchers and holiday support funded by the Household Support Fund through their child's school. If you believe you are entitled to this support, contact your child's school directly for assistance.
