Household Support Fund
The Household Support Fund helps ease financial pressure on residents with low incomes. It offers help with food, energy bills and other essential household items. The Department for Work and Pensions fund the scheme.
The scheme will run until 30 September 2024 or earlier if all funds have been allocated.
It is important to note that this is the last round of funding available. The Household Support Fund will not be offered again after 30 September 2024.
Information about the scheme:
- £400 is the most that can be awarded
- you can only submit one application per household
- applications can be made on behalf of someone else
- all applications will be treated fairly and consistently
- timescales for processing applications can vary
It's not an emergency fund. We cannot process applications urgently.
If you need urgent support visit our cost of living webpages for more information about other help available.
Find out more about the national scheme (opens new window)
Who can apply?
Applicants must:
- be over the age of 16
- live in the borough of Guildford
What will not be awarded?
- mortgage support
If you are having difficulty with your mortgage payments, contact your lender as soon as possible. Lenders will have set procedures to help.
How will your information be used?
We will only collect data relevant to your application.
Read our data protection policy for more information
How do I apply?
The Household Support Fund is paused whilst we process the high number of applications received. If you have already applied, you will be notified of the outcome of your application via email.
Whilst the fund is paused and you require support:
- if you need a foodbank referral call 01483 458055
- the Community Fridge based at The Hive, Park Barn, Guildford, GU2 8EN is open Monday to Thursday 9am till 4pm or 3.30pm on a Friday.
- if you're struggling with gas/electric or water, the Warmth Matters Project (opens new window) may be able to help.
- Thrive at The Hive, also based at The Hive is open for quality pre-loved clothes, all offered on a pay as you feel basis, this includes children's and adults' clothes, bedding and kitchenware. It's open daily from 9am till 4pm
What we need to know
To consider your application, you must tell us in detail about:
- the hardship you are experiencing
- why you are not able to meet the expenses
- what will happen if you do not receive help
You must provide evidence when requested. We will be unable to proceed with your application without this
What you'll need
- a recent bank statement that must show your name, address, sort code and account number used in the application
Applications that do not have a bank statement showing your name, address, sort code and account number that match the details on the application form will not be accepted and you will need to reapply. This could result in us not being able to award funds as all applications are considered in date/ time order, and any repeat applications will be considered as such.
What happens next?
We will make a decision based on the information provided in the application form and any other information available to us. Once we have made a decision we will give you a written notice advising:
- whether an award has been made
- the reason for the decision
- the intended use of the award
Timescales for processing applications can vary - due to the high number of applications received we are unable to accommodate urgent requests. Unfortunately, we are unable to respond to email and phone requests for updates on your application but you will receive an email that will detail if you have been awarded funds.
How will payments be made?
If successful, we will make a payment directly to your bank account.
Funding will be provided as quickly as possible to meet the agreed needs of the household.
What if I am not awarded any money?
The scheme is discretionary and there are no appeal rights.
If unsuccessful, you can ask us to look at your case again within five days of our decision.
