Portsmouth families on low income may be able to get supermarket vouchers to help with the cost of living.
Portsmouth City Council has launched a new scheme to support families with children who didn’t qualify for a voucher given out by schools this winter. Families expecting a baby in less than 20 weeks can also apply.
Applications for vouchers are now open, and are open to households with a total take-home pay of £1,800 or less the month before applying.
Families will receive a £50 voucher for each eligible child.
It’s one of the council’s support schemes funded by the UK Government’s Household Support Fund this winter.
Supermarket vouchers have already been offered to every Portsmouth child who receives benefits-related free school meals through schools. This new scheme is for those who didn’t qualify for a voucher from school.
In addition to the vouchers, the council is also offering exceptional hardship payments for Portsmouth residents of all ages who need help to pay for essentials like food or energy bills.
Portsmouth City Council Leader Cllr Steve Pitt said:
“For many, there’s no let-up in the cost of living crisis, so we want to help as many families and individuals as we can this winter. I urge anyone who is struggling to check if they qualify for the financial support available, and to contact us if they need help or advice.”
To check eligibility and how to make an application for a voucher or exceptional hardship payment visit www.portsmouth.gov.uk/householdsupportfund.
Any family unable to complete an application online can get support by calling our Household Support Fund Helpline on 023 9268 8010.
Portsmouth Older Persons Energy Payment
The city council is offering one-off payments to some Portsmouth pensioners who will miss out on the Government’s Winter Fuel Payment this year.
It’s £200 for those aged 66-79, and £300 for those who are 80 and over and households will need to apply to receive it.
Pension-aged residents can check if they qualify for the payment and apply on our website or call 023 9284 1047 if they need help
Cost of living support for all
Our cost of living hub and helpline is there to support residents of all ages who are worried about money. Call 023 9284 1047 – the helpline is open Monday to Friday 9am-5pm (closes 4.30pm on Fridays), or go online to www.portsmouth.gov.uk/cost-of-living-hub
For advice on how to save energy and cut the cost of gas and electricity bills, visit Switched on Portsmouth.