Good news is coming for families in Middlesbrough who are finding it hard to make ends meet. Under a special scheme funded by the UK Government, households can now apply for free vouchers worth up to £120. This support comes through the Household Support Fund, which is part of a huge £742 million package available to local councils across England.
The vouchers will help families with the rising cost of essentials like food, energy bills, and housing expenses. Applications open in July 2025 and the support will continue till March 2026.
What Is the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund is a government-backed scheme meant to help low-income families across the UK. It offers direct financial support to cover basic needs such as food, electricity, gas, and Council Tax.
Middlesbrough Council will use its share of the fund to give out vouchers to those who qualify. The goal is to support families who are not getting enough help through other benefits.
Who Can Apply for These Vouchers?
Families living in Middlesbrough can apply for the £120 voucher if they meet the following conditions:
They must live in a property within Middlesbrough and be responsible for paying the rent, Council Tax, or mortgage.
Their child should not be getting free school meals based on benefits, but someone in the household must receive one of these:
- Council Tax Reduction
- Income-based Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Housing Benefit
- Income Support
- Pension Credit
- Universal Credit
If you qualify, you can apply in July 2025. The council says the money will be given in phases to ensure those in greatest need get help first.
Vouchers for Children on Free School Meals
Families who already meet the free school meals criteria will not need to apply. The council will send out vouchers automatically using the information provided by schools. If your child qualifies for free meals and is under 5 years old, or if another child in your house is eligible or studies outside Middlesbrough but lives in the town, you can still apply.
The council expects to send these vouchers in July, depending on when they receive details from schools. Parents are asked not to call unless they are facing problems applying.
Other Support Available
Even if you’re not eligible for the Household Support Fund, other help is still available. The local authority is working with groups like The White Feather Project, Middlesbrough Environment City, food banks, and other local charities to meet rising demand.
Also, the UK government offers various support schemes for those struggling with the cost of living. You can visit the government’s cost of living hub online to see what other help you can get.
The Household Support Fund is a much-needed relief for many struggling families in Middlesbrough. With the rising cost of food, energy, and rent, these £120 vouchers will bring real help to homes that need it most. If your household meets the criteria, be sure to apply when the scheme opens in July. Even if you’re not eligible for this fund, other support services are available, so don’t hesitate to explore your options.
FAQs
Who can apply for the £120 Household Support Fund vouchers in Middlesbrough?
You can apply if you live in Middlesbrough, pay rent, Council Tax, or a mortgage, and receive benefits like Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, Income Support, or Pension Credit.
When does the Household Support Fund scheme run?
The scheme runs from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026, with applications for vouchers starting in July 2025.
Do I need to apply if my child already receives free school meals?
No, if your child gets benefits-related free school meals, vouchers will be sent automatically using school records.
Can I still apply if my child studies outside Middlesbrough but lives in town?
Yes, families can apply if their child goes to school outside Middlesbrough but lives in a Middlesbrough household.
What kind of support does the Household Support Fund provide?
The fund helps with food, energy bills, essential living costs, and support for struggling households, including free vouchers.
