Special cost-of-living payments of up to £200 are being paid out to more households during September, following the launch of an emergency fund by Andy Burnham's Government. Households can now submit claims to their local councils, with Birmingham City Council already distributing £200 grants.
The new fund, which has transitioned from the Household Support Fund into the Crisis Resilience Fund, helps residents with essential costs like food, water and energy. Crucially, anyone can apply, and people don't need to be claiming benefits to be eligible.
How to apply for the £200 payments
Households must submit applications to their local councils, with details of how to do so available on their websites. Local authorities hand out payments worth different amounts, with Birmingham City Council paying out £200 grants.
While anyone can apply for support, those most urgently needing support will be prioritised. This might include parents with young kids. However, all requests will be considered, so it's worth checking if you could access help if you have money worries.
Eligibility criteria for the Crisis Resilience Fund
Officials have pointed out that households don't need to be claiming benefits in order to be eligible for the support. The Birmingham Voluntary Service Council, which handles requests on behalf of the city council, confirmed the application process remains unchanged.
In a statement, the Birmingham Voluntary Service Council said: "The Household Support Fund has now transitioned into the Crisis Resilience Fund. The enquiry and application process will remain the same as HSF."
Who is prioritised for the payments
The council body added: "Please be aware that if you are not currently in receipt of any support services including Universal Credit – you may still be eligible for the Crisis Resilience Fund."
Residents are encouraged to check their local council's website for application details and to submit claims as soon as possible, as payments are being distributed throughout September.
