A new phase of the Household Support Scheme has launched – with some changes to who can apply.

The Government have announced the scheme will be further extended to help with the ongoing cost of living crisis.

The Household Support Scheme will continue to be run by the Council and local partners, to help residents of Blackburn with Darwen to access food, support with energy and water bills, and other essential items.

The cost of living crisis has become the main issue facing many households across and Blackburn and Darwen this year. Many households are struggling with rising energy bills, the price of food and petrol prices, inflation rises and the energy price cap which remains higher than previous years.

The focus of the new phase of the Household Support Scheme is targeting support to those who are not eligible for income related benefits have not had any other government cost of living support to date. One application per household.

Household support may be available for:

·       Blackburn with Darwen residents, children, families and adults

·       single claimants with an annual household income below £23,267

·       couples with an annual household income below £34,904

Please note, we may ask you about your savings. Savings must be below £16,000

To apply, you must be able to provide evidence of your total household income in the form of wage slips and bank statements, showing your name and address and upload these to your application.

You can apply here: https://www.blackburn.gov.uk/benefits/household-support-scheme