Household Support Fund (April to September 2025)
The Household Support Fund (HSF) is funded by the government through the Department for Work and Pensions. It helps Hartlepool’s most vulnerable households with the cost of food, energy, and essential items.
Who the fund supports
The fund is aimed at:
- children and young people in low income households
- pensioners receiving Local Council Tax Support
- residents in need of essential household items
What support is available
For children
Eligible children receiving free school meals or pupil premium will receive a £50 shopping voucher. These will be issued automatically through schools - no need to apply.
For pensioners
Eligible pensioners will receive a £50 shopping voucher or a direct bank payment. If we have your bank details, payment will be made in December. If not, a voucher will be posted to your home.
For queries, email hsf@hartlepool.gov.uk.
Support through local organisations
We have also allocated funding to local charities and voluntary groups:
-
Hartlepool Foodbank – Emergency food parcels
Contact: 01429 806895 or welfareandbenefit@hartlepool.gov.uk -
Citizens Advice – Energy top-ups and payments
Contact: 01429 408401 -
Advice @ Hart – Energy top-ups and equipment
Contact: 01429 748010 -
West View Advice and Resource Centre – Household essentials
Contact: 01429 271294
Council welfare support
Our Welfare Support Service can help with household goods.
Contact: 01429 806895 or welfaresupport@hartlepool.gov.uk
Do I need to apply?
You do not need to apply if you are:
- a child receiving free school meals or pupil premium
- a pensioner receiving Local Council Tax Support
In all other cases, contact the most relevant third-party provider listed above.
Need more help?
If you’re not eligible for HSF, you can still contact our Welfare Support Service for advice.
You can also visit our hardship advice and support for residents page for help with money, food, bills, housing, benefits, and debt.
Other cost of living support
HSF is just one part of the government’s wider cost of living support.
Visit Gov.uk: Cost of living support for more information.
Detailed eligibility requirements for the cost of living payments from DWP can be found at gov.uk: Cost of Living Payments 2023 to 2024.