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What is the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund is designed to provide short-term urgent financial help to Somerset residents who are struggling to afford household essentials such as buying food and paying for pre-payment meter energy bills. Funding is provided by the Department for Work and Pensions, through Somerset Council.
Why am I getting £100?
Somerset Council has decided that a simple and effective way to make sure support is provided to people who need help with the cost of living, is to allocate £100 to everyone in Somerset who receives Pension Credit.
I have received a letter from the Council offering me £100 – what should I do?
If your letter is dated 4 or 5 April, please discard as it has an incorrect name on it. You will not be able to claim your £100. You will receive a new letter shortly with your name and address on it. This will help you to prove your identity to the Post Office and claim your £100.
My letter has my name and surname the wrong way round – can I still claim?
The Post Office have confirmed that you will be able to claim your £100, even with your name and surname printed the wrong way round on the letter, as long as you have correct ID with you.
How can I claim my £100 now?
You will receive a new letter, dated the 17 April. Instructions on how to claim your £100 will be in that letter.
What evidence do I need to provide to claim my £100?
You will need evidence of your name and address, or a photo identification (ID). Examples of evidence are provided in the letter, including:
- Passport
- Driver’s licence
- Utility bill
- Council Tax bill
- Blue Badge
- Pension credit notification letter
What if I cannot go to the Post Office to claim my £100?
You can ask a friend or family member to go for you. Instructions are in the letter.
I have Power of Attorney for the person eligible to claim their £100 – how do I claim on their behalf?
Please bring proof of your Power of Attorney with you, along with identification for the person eligible to claim, and you will be able to claim the £100 from the Post Office.
Why can't you put this money straight into my bank account?
Unfortunately, bank details already held by the council could not be shared for this purpose. We are looking into other options for future payments.
Can I provide a photocopy of my ID?
No, your ID should be original, not a photocopy.
Should I be worried about data protection and my privacy?
Your personal details are safe and confidential. If you are concerned about your data, please contact us on informationgovernance@somerset.gov.uk