Household Support Fund extension – applications now open

Applications are now open for the extension of the Household Support Fund in Blackburn with Darwen.

The scheme has been extended by the Government until September to carry on helping people with the rising cost of living.

The Council has delivered the HSF since October 2021 in partnership with voluntary, community and faith sector partner organisations who are working together to get the vital support to those who need it most.

There’s help for fuel payments, food parcels, boiler servicing, home insulation and items such as fridges and cookers that may need replacing.

You can apply if you live in Blackburn or Darwen and even if you are in full or part time work – and you don’t have to be claiming benefits.

Go to: https://www.blackburn.gov.uk/cost-living-support/household-support-fund

Once we receive your form you will be referred on to the most relevant partner organisation who will contact you and talk through what support may be available.

Councillor Phil Riley, Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said:

We lobbied the Government very hard for the extension of the HSF along with charities and voluntary organisations, and this extension until September is welcome, although we do hope that it will be extended beyond this as we know the need for this help will not end when the HSF ends.

Continuing this funding is vital for our residents who are most vulnerable and have the lowest incomes, and those are affected by the continuing rise in the cost of living.

“People can still apply for the current phase of funding until September, and we are also asking people to help out any family or friends, who might be eligible for the Household Support Scheme, with their online application if they are not confident with doing this online.”

You can also find lots more information to help you on the cost of living support page, at: https://www.blackburn.gov.uk/cost-living-support/help-rising-cost-living

This includes local voluntary organisations and charities as well as national schemes.

For all sorts of help via the Government, go to: https://helpforhouseholds.campaign.gov.uk/