In this era of rising inflation, the UK government has taken a major initiative and launched a £150 Cost of Living Voucher to help financially weak families. This scheme has been implemented under the Household Support Fund (HSF), which aims to provide assistance in essential needs such as food, electricity, gas bills and daily expenses. This article has been prepared to explain the complete information of this scheme in simple language in Hindi, in which everything from eligibility to the application process and how to use the voucher is explained in detail.
£150 Cost of Living Support Voucher: What is this scheme?
The £150 Cost of Living Voucher is a government initiative aimed at providing assistance for essential expenses to UK families facing low-income or financial crisis. The voucher helps you buy essential items such as food, clothing and utility bills. The money is paid directly in the form of a voucher which you can use in many large supermarkets.
Who will get the £150 voucher?
This is because it will be the prerogative of your local council to determine whether you are entitled to this voucher or not. The eligibility criteria are however the following:
- Residence: You must live in the area whose local council is issuing the voucher.
- Financial hardship: You will need to provide evidence that you are having difficulty meeting basic needs.
- Income limit: Some councils have set an income limit, which will give priority to those who fall under it.
- Supported households: If you are receiving Universal Credit, Pension Credit or other government support, you are more likely to be eligible.
Application Process: How to Apply?
1. Check your eligibility
Go to your local council’s website to see if you qualify for help. Some councils rules may differ.
2. Have the required documents ready
You may need the following documents when applying:
- Items of identity (e.g. driving licence or passport)
- Evidence of residency (electricity bill, statement of council tax)
- Evidence of financial situations (statement of income, government benefit letter)
3. Apply online or offline
- Online: Fill out the form through your local council’s website.
- In person: You can also apply by visiting the council office.
4. Wait and confirmation
After applying, the relevant officials will review your situation and if found eligible, the voucher will be provided. This process can vary from council to council.
Where can I use the voucher?
The voucher is for essential items only and can be spent at major UK supermarkets, including:
- Asda
- Aldi
- Tesco
- Sainsbury’s
- Morrisons
- Iceland
- Farmfoods
- Marks & Spencer
- Waitrose
But before you do that remember to check with your local council to find out which retailers in your area are bowing to the voucher.
Important dates and deadlines
- Application deadline: This differs depending upon the local council but some local councils have their deadline as late as 13 February 2025. Then it is necessary to apply in time.
- Due Date to Voucher: After receiving a voucher, one should use it within a given period, otherwise the voucher can get cancelled.
What if you’re not eligible? Find out your options
Alright, in case you are not eligible to receive this 150 pound voucher, there are still some alternatives left which can be availed by you:
- Warm Home Discount: A one-time payment of 150 which is used in the payment of electricity or gas.
- Winter Fuel Payment: An amount of up to 100 up to 300 pounds is paid to the older people tax-free to assist them with meet fuel expenses during the winter months.
- Cold Weather Payment: Every week where the Temperature falls below 0 o C there are 7 days, and they receive 25 pounds between what happens during the period of November and March.
- Food Bank Vouchers: You can get a voucher for food aid from a local charity, doctor or social worker.
Final Thoughts: A Hope of Relief
The £150 Cost of Living Voucher is a great relief for families who are unable to meet the basic needs under the pressure of inflation. If you are eligible and apply on time, this voucher can be a great support for you in food, clothing and essential services.
Visit the local council web page and get the correct information and apply with the correct information. This is your golden chance and this may turn out to be a good thing in the life of your family.
Sources for More Information
➡️ UK Government’s Household Support Fund Page
If you need more information or are facing any difficulty in the application process, it is best to contact your nearest council office.
FAQs
Q1.Who is eligible for the £150 voucher?
Eligibility varies by local council but generally includes low-income households and benefit recipients.
Q2. How can I apply for the voucher?
You can apply online through your local council’s website or in person at council offices.
Q3. What documents are required for the application?
Common documents include ID proof, proof of residence, and financial hardship evidence.
Q4. Where can I use the £150 voucher?
The voucher can be used at major supermarkets like Tesco, Asda, Aldi, Sainsbury’s, and others.
Q5. When is the deadline to apply?
Deadlines vary by council; some end as early as February 13, 2025. Check your local council’s website.