Portsmouth City Council has announced the opening of the fourth and final application window for the Department for Work and Pensions' Household Support Fund, offering crucial financial assistance to residents grappling with the ongoing cost of living crisis.
Urgent Application Deadline Approaching
The council has issued a clear warning to local households: applications must be submitted before 12 noon on Thursday, 26 February 2026. Due to strictly limited funding allocations, this vital support scheme may close earlier than the stated deadline if all available funds are distributed.
Payment Amounts and Eligibility Criteria
The local authority has confirmed that eligible single-person households will receive a payment of £150, while couples and families will be granted £200. This financial support is specifically designed to help low-income residents manage escalating energy and water bills.
To qualify for this assistance, applicants must meet specific criteria. Firstly, they must be receiving one of six designated benefits:
- Disability benefit
- Carer's Allowance
- Carers Element of Universal Credit
- Single parents receiving Universal Credit
- Child element of Universal Credit
- Housing cost element of Universal Credit
Secondly, strict household income thresholds apply. A single adult household must have an income below £935, while couples must earn less than £1,350. Crucially, all applicants must be residents of Portsmouth.
Background of the Household Support Fund
This funding initiative originates from the Chancellor of the Exchequer's announcement on 30 October 2024, which extended the Household Support Fund with additional resources. Local Authorities across England are receiving an extra £742 million to distribute to those in need within their communities.
The current funding period runs from 1 April 2025 until 31 March 2026, making this Portsmouth's final opportunity to distribute support through this particular scheme. The council has confirmed that the Household Support Fund will subsequently be replaced by a new Crisis and Resilience Fund.
A Critical Safety Net for Vulnerable Households
This scheme represents a vital lifeline for some of Portsmouth's most financially vulnerable residents. The council emphasises that the support aims to ensure children do not go hungry during school holidays, addressing food insecurity outside of term time.
Importantly, the council has clarified that people can apply for this support whether or not they currently receive benefits, broadening the potential reach of this assistance programme. Residents are encouraged to check their eligibility and submit applications promptly to access this crucial financial support during challenging economic times.
