Household Support Fund

The Household Support Fund provides essential help to vulnerable households in Waltham Forest struggling with rising energy bills and the increasing cost of living. 

The London Borough of Waltham Forest has been allocated £2.3 million from the Department for Work and Pensions to offer this vital support. The funding is available from 1 October 2024 to 31 March 2025. 

This funding supports residents with urgent needs such as food, utility bills, housing, and advice services. Assistance is mostly provided proactively to key groups in the community. However, for those seeking individual financial support, an application-based scheme is available through Local Welfare Assistance (LWA). 

If you need financial help and are not covered by the schemes below, you may be eligible to apply for Local Welfare Assistance (LWA). Visit the Local Welfare Assistance (LWA) page to check your eligibility and submit an application. 

Key Areas of Assistance 

Free School Meal Vouchers 

Families with children eligible for benefits-related free school meals will receive supermarket vouchers through Edenred, distributed via schools. These will cover the two-week Christmas holiday (December 2024) and February 2025 half-term. Visit the Free School Meals to check on eligibility.   

Breakfast for Learning Scheme 

Primary schools across Waltham Forest will receive additional funding to support children most affected by the cost-of-living crisis. This will enhance breakfast programs with nutritious food options, ensuring children start the school day well-fed. 

Support for Families with Children 

Families with children will receive targeted support for food, utility bills, and other essentials to create safe and stable home environments. This includes early interventions to prevent financial hardship and reduce family stress. 

Care Leavers 

Young people aged 16 to 24 transitioning out of care will receive vouchers for food, energy, and water expenses, as well as guidance on financial management, education, and training opportunities. More details are available on the Leaving Care Offer page. 

Support for Pensioners and Vulnerable Adults 

Pensioners and vulnerable adults most affected by financial hardship will be eligible to apply for vouchers covering food, energy, and water. Vouchers will be distributed through the Post Office, and assistance in applying is available at Community Drop-In. 

Support Through Voluntary and Community Groups 

Pension-age residents who do not qualify for Pension Credit or prefer to access support outside the Council can receive additional energy vouchers through trusted voluntary and community groups. Visit Age UK Waltham Forest for more information. 

Support for Food Hubs 

Additional funding is being provided to expand the work of Food Hubs, which collect surplus food and distribute it to 15 food banks across Waltham Forest. 

Advice and Guidance Services 

Face-to-face advice and guidance services are available across the borough to help residents: 

• Access Household Support Fund schemes 
• Learn about Local Welfare Assistance (LWA) 
• Find other financial support resources 

For further assistance, residents can visit Citizens Advice or apply directly for Local Welfare Assistance (LWA) through the Local Welfare Assistance (LWA) page. 

Need Help? 

If you or your family need support, we’re here to help. 

• Visit our pages on Cost of Living Support for more details 
• Attend a Community Hub Drop-In at your nearest Family Hub 
• Learn more about government support for the cost of living at the Government's Cost of Living Support page.   

Together, we can ensure every resident has access to the resources they need during these challenging times.