If you’re finding it hard to keep up with everyday expenses, you could be eligible for a £150 voucher through the UK government’s Household Support Fund (HSF). This scheme is designed to help struggling households by providing vouchers for essentials like food, utilities, and clothing. With local councils distributing these funds in partnership with major supermarkets and retailers, this support could be the helping hand your household needs right now.
Purpose
The £150 voucher isn’t just a financial bonus—it’s a much-needed safety net. It helps low-income families and individuals cover critical costs as inflation and food prices remain high. Many households automatically receive support, while others can apply through their local council.
Features
Here’s a quick overview of the key details:
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Voucher Value | £150 (amount can vary by council or household needs) |
Who Administers It | Local councils across England |
Eligibility | Low-income, benefit recipients, or those facing hardship |
Participating Retailers | Tesco, Asda, Aldi, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Iceland, Argos, B&M, Halfords |
Fund Duration | April 2025 – March 2026 |
Where to Apply | Your local council |
Official Resource | GOV.UK Household Support Fund |
Fund
Launched in 2021 by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the Household Support Fund helps the most vulnerable households with essential expenses. With £742 million allocated for the 2025–2026 phase, local councils can provide food and energy vouchers, or even direct cash payments.
Each council tailors its distribution based on local needs. For most areas, this support comes in the form of £150 supermarket vouchers—but households with more children or disabilities may receive higher amounts.
Need
You might wonder, why is this even necessary? Here’s what the numbers say:
- Nearly 30% of UK adults said they struggled to afford basics in 2024
- 1 in 4 children are growing up in relative poverty
- Food prices surged by over 19% in 2023
In this context, the £150 voucher becomes more than a short-term fix—it’s a way to help families bridge the gap.
Retailers
The voucher can usually be redeemed at several large UK chains, including:
- Tesco
- Asda
- Sainsbury’s
- Aldi
- Morrisons
- Iceland
- B&M
- Argos
- Halfords
Check your local council’s list, as available retailers can vary slightly by region.
Eligibility
Each council has its own rules, but here’s what they typically look for:
- Receiving benefits like Universal Credit or Pension Credit
- Enrolled in Council Tax Reduction schemes
- Experiencing a recent financial crisis or debt
- Having a household income below a certain threshold
Some councils send out vouchers automatically if you’re already enrolled in a benefit program. Others require an application.
Real-Life Examples
- Wakefield Council gives £195 vouchers automatically to Council Tax Support recipients.
- Plymouth Council allows families to apply for vouchers worth up to £240.
Application
Follow these steps to apply:
Step 1: Find your local council using the “Find Your Council” tool on GOV.UK.
Step 2: Visit their site to check if a voucher scheme is active.
Step 3: If required, fill out an online application form.
Step 4: Submit documents like income proof or benefit letters.
Step 5: If approved, redeem the voucher online or in stores.
Example
Sarah from Sheffield, a single mother of two, lost her part-time job in early 2024. She received a £150 voucher from her council that helped cover food and school items. “It made a real difference. I could breathe a little easier knowing I had support,” she said.
Tips
Make the most of your voucher with these smart moves:
- Shop essentials first, skip premium brands
- Use loyalty cards for bonus savings
- Check voucher expiry dates—most last around 3 months
- Some councils allow the amount to be split monthly—ask if that’s an option
These vouchers can be a lifeline, but they’re not around forever. If you think you qualify, take action today.
FAQs
Who can get the £150 voucher?
Low-income or benefit-receiving households.
Where do I apply for the voucher?
Apply through your local council’s website.
Which shops accept the voucher?
Tesco, Asda, Aldi, Sainsbury’s, and more.
Is the voucher sent automatically?
Some councils issue it automatically to benefit claimants.
How long is the voucher valid?
Usually valid for around 3 months.