Somerset Household Support Fund

Financial support for vulnerable households which are struggling to afford household essentials

Funding for 2 year olds

Families with 2-year-old children who meet the criteria can apply for funding for 2 year olds

Help with health costs

If you are on a low income, have an illness or disability, unemployed or are a carer, you may be able to claim for extra money to help with your healthcare costs

Free school meals

See if your child qualifies for free school meals

Early Years entitlement for parents

All 3 and 4 year olds are entitled to up to 15 hours of funded early education or childcare a week

Access to Work Fund

Access to Work is a government programme aimed at supporting disabled people to take up or remain in work.

Food support for families in Somerset

Support is available for families who may be struggling to find food

Money advice

When the money you have is limited, it is really important to keep track of your finances so that you don't spend more than you can afford

Budgeting

Information about budgeting and where to go for advice

Trusts and wills

Special needs financial advice, including frequent questions and concerns from parent carers as well as an introduction to wills and trusts

Activity passes and discounts

Passes are available to all families in Somerset with a child or young person with a disability or additional need

Somerset Max Card

The Max Card is designed to make days out more affordable for foster families of children with additional needs

Help with costs

If you are on a low income, have an illness or disability, unemployed or are a carer, you may be able to claim for extra money to help with your costs

Universal Credit

Information about Universal Credit, a payment to help with your living costs

Employment Support Allowance

Universal Credit has replaced Income-based Employment Support Allowance (ESA) in Somerset, unless you are in receipt of Severe Disability Premium

Child Tax Credit (including Disability element)

Information about Child Tax Credit and where you can go to find out more

Disability Living Allowance, Attendance Allowance and Carers Allowance

Information and guidance about allowance payments you may be able to claim to help with your needs

Personal Independence Payments (PIP)

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a new benefit to help disabled people live full, active and independent lives

Benefits

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is responsible for welfare, pensions and child maintenance policy

Housing

Information on how to find somewhere to live and support that might be available

Disabled Facilities Grant

If you or someone living in your property is disabled, you may qualify for a disabled facilities grant towards the costs

Living more independently

Finding a place to live is important because it can give you the confidence to become more independent

Renting somewhere to live

Including renting from a council or housing association, a charity or voluntary organisation, a private landlord or someone you know, like a family member or friend

Owning your home

Including Inheriting or using a family property, Disabled Facilities Grants and Home Ownership for people with Long-term Disabilities (HOLD)