The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is providing a vital financial lifeline to struggling families this winter, with eligible households in one UK region able to claim £110 in free supermarket vouchers. The vouchers are valid at four major retailers: Asda, Morrisons, Sainsbury's, and Tesco.
What is the Household Support Fund?
This support forms part of the DWP's Household Support Fund, a wider £742 million pot of money allocated to local councils across England. The fund is specifically designed to help vulnerable residents cover essential costs like food, energy, and other necessities during the colder months. The scheme is active until 31 March 2026, but each local authority decides how to distribute its share of the funding, leading to a postcode lottery of support.
Who is Eligible in Cambridgeshire?
In the East of England, Cambridgeshire County Council has confirmed it is issuing the £110 financial awards. Households must apply online and meet specific criteria to qualify. The key requirements for Cambridgeshire residents are:
- Having £16,000 or less in savings, cash, and investments.
- Earning below the income thresholds set by the council.
- Making a joint application if living with a spouse or partner.
Successful applicants can choose to receive the £110 as a single payment or split it into various vouchers, including the supermarket vouchers for the four named retailers.
Application Deadlines and National Variations
In Cambridgeshire, the direct application window will close at 12pm noon on Monday, 22 December 2025. It will then reopen on Monday, 5 January 2026. The council stresses that this is a one-off payment per household and all applications are treated confidentially.
As the Household Support Fund is administered locally, the help available differs dramatically across the country. For example:
- In Staffordshire, households can get a one-off £300 payment directly to their utility provider.
- Calderdale residents may receive up to two payments of £85.
- In Nottingham, eligible families can apply for £100 in supermarket vouchers.
- Doncaster Council offers some households up to £300 for food and others £100 towards energy bills.
- In Manchester, residents on Council Tax support and a disability benefit could get payments of up to £130.
The DWP has noted that some councils distribute funds via charities, while others limit applications to one per year. This means some households may receive support before Christmas, while others face a longer wait.
If you are facing financial hardship this winter, it is crucial to check with your own local council to see what specific cost of living assistance you may be entitled to under the Household Support Fund scheme.
