The UK government recently announced that eligible households will be able to receive up to £225 as Cost of Living credit. Thousands of families will be able to apply for these vouchers as the Household Support Fund, worth £421 million, is extended. Medway Council has already opened applications for struggling residents.

This comes as the United Kingdom is struggling with a cost of living crisis. Millions are struggling to pay their bills and afford the bare essentials. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt brought in the spring Budget with an aim of increasing household incomes, including a 2p National Insurance tax cut, changes to the Child Benefit, and an extension to the Household Support Fund.

However, experts have expressed concerns that the measures might benefit only the higher earners. The NI cut is set to benefit those earning £50,000 or more.

The Household Support Fund scheme will help the UK government support families needing financial assistance. It will help cover the basic – food, home essentials, school uniforms, and housing costs.

The government fund will be user to cover housing costs, but not mortgages. The Medway Council, which is in South-East England, has started accepting applications. It is accessible to all Medway residents, whether they receive benefits or qualify for public funds.

To be eligible, you must:

– Be a resident of Medway

– Be aged 16 or over

– Be in demonstrable hardship

– Have less than £500 in your bank account

– The official document adds that one must not have access to any other funds