Overview
If you’re struggling to afford basic household items like food or energy bills (including prepayment meters), the Household Support Fund crisis vouchers can offer short-term financial help.
Somerset Council is also giving out £6.74 million in support between April 2025 and March 2026 through the Government’s Household Support Fund.
This programme is funded by Somerset Council, and we’re working with schools and local community organisations to make sure families and residents get the help they need.
This fund is paid for by the Department for Work and Pensions. You can learn more and apply online through the GOV.UK website. The funding available is limited. We will try to help as many households in need as possible.
Each household can apply once per funding round. If you’ve applied before and your situation hasn’t changed, you can still get support.
You must meet the person and circumstance criteria to be eligible for the fund
Applications must be made online.
What the fund will cover
The Household Support Fund gives help through vouchers, not cash or direct payments to your bank.
These can help with:
- Food – You’ll get supermarket vouchers that work in all major stores. They’re valid for six months from the date you receive them.
What the fund does not cover
The fund does not pay for:
- Debt repayments
- Cash payments
- Rent or housing costs
- Phone bills
- Non-essential items (like TVs or some furniture)
What happens after you apply
- Your application will be reviewed by the Household Support Fund team.
- You’ll get an email letting you know if your application is approved.
- If approved, the email will explain what support you’ll get and how you’ll receive it. Vouchers will be sent within 24 hours of approval.
Review times
- Food and energy vouchers: Reviewed within 10 working days.
If your application is declined
Unfortunately, you may not have met the criteria at this time. You can reapply if your situation changes and the funding window is still open.