Households could get hundreds of pounds to help with living costs
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Low-income households have the chance to claim special cost-of-living payments before Christmas.
Those suffering financial hardship can claim emergency payments from local councils.
The money can help to pay for things like food, energy and water.
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Anyone can apply to their local council, including those who don’t receive DWP benefits.
And those who apply now may still be able to get payments in time for Christmas, depending how they are processed at a local level.
Some authorities offer payments worth hundreds of pounds.
Birmingham City Council pays out £200 grants, for example.
Officials will prioritise those most in need of urgent support, and applicants may need to show they are suffering financial hardship.
Other forms of support may also be available such as meal vouchers.
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The DWP explained: “You may be able to get help with essential costs from your local council.
“This is sometimes known as ‘the Household Support Fund’. This could help if you’re struggling to afford things like:
- energy and water bills
- food
- essential items
“Your council may also offer food vouchers to families during the school holidays.
“Funding is aimed at anyone who’s vulnerable or cannot pay for essentials. You do not have to be getting benefits to get help from your local council.
“If you get benefits, they will not be affected if you get a payment from a Household Support Fund scheme.”