Good news is on the way for families in Birmingham struggling with rising living costs. Birmingham City Council, in partnership with the Birmingham Voluntary Service Council (BVSC), has announced that applications for cost of living support payments will reopen in June 2025.
This comes under the Household Support Fund (HSF)—a government-backed scheme helping low-income households cover basic needs like food and energy.
Here’s everything you need to know.
What Is the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund (HSF) is a government fund managed by local councils across the UK. It’s designed to support families and individuals facing financial hardship, especially those struggling to afford essentials such as groceries, electricity, gas, and water.
The scheme was first introduced to support families during winter, but due to ongoing cost-of-living challenges, it has now been extended into summer 2025.
When Can You Apply?
The Birmingham scheme has already closed its previous round of applications, but new applications will reopen in June 2025.
BVSC has confirmed that:
- Those already on the waiting list (with confirmation emails) don’t need to do anything else. They will be contacted directly.
- New applicants—especially those who haven’t received HSF support in the last 12 months—will be able to apply once the scheme restarts.
Who Can Apply for the £200 Grant?
To be eligible, you must:
- Be a resident of Birmingham
- Be experiencing financial hardship
- Not have received HSF assistance in the last 12 months
Applicants must show that they are finding it difficult to afford basic daily needs, such as food or energy bills.
If approved, eligible households will receive a grant of up to £200. The money is meant to help cover food costs, utility bills, and other urgent living expenses.
Why This Support Is Important
Many families are still finding it hard to cope with high energy bills, food inflation, and overall rising living costs. The Household Support Fund offers direct financial help at a time when it’s most needed.
The fund is provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) but distributed locally by councils and community service bodies like BVSC.
Final Words: A Lifeline for Struggling Households
The return of the Household Support Fund in Birmingham offers much-needed relief for people facing money problems. With rising costs and limited income, even a small grant like this can help families buy food or keep the lights on.
If you live in Birmingham, and it’s been over 12 months since you last received help from the HSF, June 2025 is your chance to apply again. Keep an eye on the BVSC website or your local council page for updates on when applications officially reopen.
FAQ’S
When will Household Support Fund applications reopen in Birmingham?
Applications will reopen in June 2025 for Birmingham residents through the Household Support Fund (HSF) managed by BVSC and the city council.
Who can apply for the £200 HSF grant in Birmingham?
Birmingham residents facing financial hardship who have not received a Household Support Fund payment in the last 12 months are eligible to apply.
How much support is available under the HSF scheme?
Eligible households in Birmingham can receive up to £200 to help with food, energy, water, and other essential costs.
Do I need to apply again if I’m already on the waiting list?
No, if you have received a confirmation email after submitting an enquiry, you are already on the waiting list and will be contacted automatically.
Where can I apply for the Birmingham Household Support Fund?
Once applications reopen in June 2025, eligible residents can apply through the Birmingham City Council website or via the BVSC platform.
When we get paid 200 pounds
Hello Christine Dixon,
Applications for payments have now closed but will be reopening again in June.