Household Support Fund - WNC

The Household Support Fund (HSF7) is a UK Government scheme, managed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). It gives funds to local councils for distribution to vulnerable households to help with essential living costs. These costs include food, energy, water bills, and other vital supplies. "HSF7" refers to the seventh iteration of this fund, which runs from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026.

West Northamptonshire Councillors have approved plans for distributing HSF7 funds. The plans are in line with the Government guidance.

The plans include:

• Giving food vouchers during school holidays to about 12,700 families with children who get free school meals (apply here).

• Offering the same families the chance to apply for vouchers to help with school essentials and winter coats (apply here).

• Giving vulnerable households the chance to apply for a Winter Warm Pack or Energy Saving Pack through Welcoming Spaces.

• Providing grants to community and voluntary groups so they can offer more support to local residents (more information).

• Working with trusted partners to give residents help with:

  • Debt and money advice (apply here)

  • Support with food

  • Support with energy costs and saving

  • Support for households with babies and infants (Baby Basics / Growbaby)

  • Household support

All awards and funding come with wrap-around support schemes. These help households transition from crisis support to longer-term support.

The Household Support Fund pays for a range of services and support across West Northamptonshire. For more information, visit WNC's Cost of Living support pages.

Cost of living roadshows

A series of cost-of-living roadshow events and pop-up stalls are held across West Northamptonshire. They highlight the support available to residents across the area.

Find upcoming roadshow dates here.