Last chance to apply for financial support from the Household Support Fund

Wokingham Borough Council and the Hardship Alliance are working together to make sure households who need support can access this funding before the scheme closes at the end of March.  

The Household Support Fund is provided by the UK Government and is designed to help residents who are struggling with the rising cost of living. It provides short-term financial support for essentials such as food, energy and household costs, ensuring help and advice reaches those who need it most. 

This round of the Household Support Fund was launched in September and is distributed based on specific criteria. 

You may be eligible if: 

You can check your eligibility and apply by using this form. 

As with previous rounds, the council continues to work in partnership with the Hardship Alliance to manage and allocate the fund. The Alliance is a group of local charities working with the council – 

Citizens Advice Wokingham, First Days Children’s Charity, Age UK Berkshire and Wokingham United Charities. 

Individuals who meet the requirements will be contacted by one of the charities, who will assist with making a personalised plan based on their need to apply for funding. They will also be provided with any necessary support in addition to funding. 

Evidence of financial situations will be required so that support reaches those who need it most. 

Executive member for resident services, inclusion and fighting poverty, Cllr Rachel Bishop-Firth, said: “The Household Support Fund has helped thousands of residents in Wokingham Borough since it launched in 2021, and many people are still feeling the impact of rising living costs. If you are struggling financially, this may be able to help.  

“Please check your eligibility today. If you receive a message from us or from your child’s school, please follow the link provided and complete the short form as soon as you can. If you have already applied and we have asked for more information, please send this by the deadline in your message, as applications without the required evidence cannot be processed. 

“Don’t suffer alone. We may be able to offer support and advice in these challenging times.” 

There is also other support on offer which everyone can access:  

For more information about support you may be able to access, please visit the council’s Cost of Living page.