If you’re having a hard time covering everyday essentials like food, clothes, and utility bills, the UK government’s Household Support Fund (HSF) could offer a much-needed financial lifeline. Under this program, eligible low-income households may receive a £150 voucher to help with critical expenses.
With the cost of living still high and inflation lingering, many councils are distributing these vouchers automatically or through short applications. Here’s everything you need to know to access this support.
Overview
The £150 voucher is part of the Household Support Fund, created to help vulnerable families cope with increased living costs. The support is often distributed through local councils, which tailor the assistance based on community needs.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Voucher Value | £150 (may vary based on council or household composition) |
| Eligibility | Low-income households, benefit recipients, families in hardship |
| Where to Apply | Through your local council |
| How It’s Distributed | Automatically or via online application |
| Valid Retailers | Tesco, Aldi, Asda, Sainsbury’s, Argos, Iceland, B&M, Halfords |
| Duration | July 2025 – August 2026 |
| Administered By | Local councils across England |
| Official Website | GOV.UK Household Support Fund |
Household Support Fund
Launched in 2021 and extended into 2025–2026, the Household Support Fund is a government initiative managed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). With an investment of £742 million for the current phase, the fund allows councils to offer direct financial aid—usually in the form of food or utility vouchers—to households under financial stress.
Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all approach, the fund is distributed at the local level. Some councils may provide £150 supermarket vouchers, while others give more depending on family size or additional needs.
Why This Support Is Important
The need for assistance has grown significantly in recent years:
- Nearly 1 in 3 UK adults report struggling with basic expenses
- 1 in 4 children are growing up in relative poverty
- Food prices spiked over 19% in 2023
This £150 voucher may not seem like much, but for many families, it’s the difference between an empty fridge and a stocked one.
Where You Can Spend the Voucher
The vouchers are typically redeemable at major supermarkets and some household retailers, including:
- Tesco
- Asda
- Aldi
- Sainsbury’s
- Morrisons
- Iceland
- Argos
- B&M
- Halfords
Some councils might extend the voucher use to school supplies or clothing shops, especially in back-to-school months.
Who Qualifies?
Eligibility varies depending on where you live, but most councils follow similar criteria. You may qualify if you:
- Receive benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, or Income Support
- Are on a low income, even without receiving benefits
- Are in a financial emergency due to redundancy, illness, or debt
- Get Council Tax Reduction or Housing Benefit
Some councils send vouchers automatically to those already enrolled in benefits programs. Others require a short application, especially for one-time emergency support.
Examples
- Wakefield Council gives £195 automatically to those on Council Tax Support
- Plymouth Council offers up to £240 in food vouchers for families in hardship
- Sheffield Council allows applicants to submit claims online with supporting documents
How to Apply
Applying is straightforward. Follow these steps:
Step 1
Use the official Find Your Local Council tool.
Step 2
Visit your council’s website and look for the Household Support Fund or emergency support scheme section.
Step 3
If your council requires applications, fill in the form with basic household and financial details. Others may issue vouchers automatically if you’re already on their records.
Step 4
You may need to provide proof of income, benefit status, or recent bank statements.
Step 5
Once approved, the voucher may be emailed, mailed, or added to a prepaid card.
Real-Life Example
Sarah, a single mother from Sheffield, shared her experience:
“I lost my part-time job in early 2024, and everything started piling up. The £150 voucher from my local council let me restock groceries and buy my kids’ school shoes. It was a real lifesaver.”
How to Make the Most of Your Voucher
Here are some practical tips to stretch your support:
- Stick to Basics: Focus on food staples, toiletries, and school items
- Check Expiry Dates: Many vouchers expire in 90 days
- Use Loyalty Cards: Combine with store reward schemes like Tesco Clubcard
- Track Offers: Watch for discounts and cashback deals
- Split Payments: Some councils split vouchers monthly for better budget control
FAQs
How much is the voucher worth?
Most councils offer £150, but it can vary by location and need.
Where can I use the voucher?
Most vouchers are accepted at Tesco, Aldi, Asda, Sainsbury’s, and others.
Do I need to apply for the voucher?
Some councils issue vouchers automatically, others require online application.
Can I use the voucher for clothing?
In some areas, yes—check your council’s rules for eligible items.
When does the scheme end?
The current phase runs from July 2025 to August 2026.
