Thousands of struggling families across the United Kingdom can claim free vouchers to help them cover the cost of ever-soaring bills this winter.
The help comes as part of the Government's Household Support Fund, distributed by councils across England to assist those who need the most help.
The brand-new boost worth £421million means that thousands will receive the support they need to help keep their families fed and warm over the cold coming months - as well as being assisted with other essentials.
Read more: Full list of DWP Christmas benefit and cost of living payment dates
The Mirror reports that it is up to each council to decide how to distribute this cash, so it means families face a postcode lottery on exactly what help is available - and who can get it. Some councils choose to distribute support in the form of vouchers, while others give out cash payments.
And while some will receive help automatically, others will have to apply.
To find out what support is available in your area, you'll need to contact your local council, or use the gov.uk council checker tool.
South Tyneside Council's official website for example, says that most households in the borough who are eligible have been notified. This would have came in the form of correspondence from the Council themselves, or through a third party operator such as schools or outreach support.
In South Tyneside funds will be distributed by vouchers, and no cash payment is given.
Not all councils have updated their pages with information of the latest Household Support Fund extension.
The Household Support Fund will run from this month until March 2023, or until the funding has been spent.
Read next:
- Martin Lewis issues warning of 'mortgage ticking time bomb' for millions of households
- Martin Lewis predicts average energy bill will go up 73% in April after Budget U-turn
Martin Lewis gives verdict on sticking with fixed mortgage rate or getting a variable one
Martin Lewis explains how you can get free food from Greggs and Burger King
Martin Lewis explains how you can get an extra £200 in time for Christmas using simple trick
