Households struggling to afford essential household costs, such as for food or energy, can apply for the seventh round of Household Support Fund (HSF) funding.
The scheme is funded by the Department for Work and Pensions and delivered by BCP Council.
The latest funding round could furnish low-income households with short-term financial support.
It comes alongside free, practical advice from Citizens Advice BCP and Ridgewater Energy, specialists on managing money and heating homes efficiently.
HSF round seven will run until 31st March 2026.
Cllr Millie Earl, Leader of BCP Council, said: “I’m pleased the HSF has been extended for a seventh round to support people with the cost-of-living.
“The initiative can provide struggling households with crucial financial support, as well as practical advice and guidance from experts to help residents make their money go further.
“I urge anyone who thinks they might be eligible to apply, and to make the most of the practical advice and guidance on offer.”
BCP Council continues to work closely with community and voluntary sector partners through the ‘Together We Can’ partnership, delivering a range of support, including in the following main areas, to provide effective relief to struggling households:
Household grants for essential bills
The Citizens Advice BCP team can provide household grants to help with food and energy costs for eligible households through an application process.
They can also provide wraparound support to help with issues such as benefits advice, homelessness and domestic abuse, as well as practical budgeting and debt management guidance.
HSF grant vouchers valued at £150 will be offered to eligible residents in two rounds over the funding period, meaning households could be entitled to up to £300 in support over the year.
Applications from qualifying households will be accepted in the following windows:
9 am on Monday 12th May 2025 to 4.30pm on Friday 4th July 2025
9am on Monday 21st July 2025 to 4.30pm on Friday 12th Sept 2025
9am on Monday 29th Sept 2025 to 4.30pm on Friday 21st Nov 2025
9am on Monday 8th Dec 2025 to 4.30pm on Friday 30th Jan 2026
Funds are limited compared to number of applications that are received, and grants are prioritised for the most vulnerable low-income households.
For more information, visit the Citizens Advice HSF webpage, call Citizen’s Advice line on 0808 278 7939, or visit the team at any community outreach session.