MORE pensioner households in Solihull could qualify for financial support through the Household Support Fund – says Age UK Solihull.
This comes after a revision to the criteria now permits applicants to have savings of up to £10,000 per person in the household, an increase from the previous threshold of £5,000.
The Household Support Fund is given to Councils across the country from the Department of Work and Pensions to financially support for residents struggling with energy bills, water bills, and other household essentials.
In Solihull Age UK Solihull, is distributing the funds to older residents on behalf of the Council.
To qualify for support through the Fund, Silhillians must have savings of £10,000 or less (per pensioner in the household), have a household income of £31,000 or less, have someone living in the household with one of the listed vulnerabilities and be in receipt of one of the qualifying benefits – for a full list of qualifying criteria, click here.
Eligible residents could receive a £200-300 fuel payment per household if they are not eligible for the Winter Fuel payment.
Age UK Solihull’s older people’s services manager, Hilary Tomlinson, says, “We are delighted to have expanded the criteria for support from the Household Support Fund, meaning that even more pensioner households in Solihull will benefit.
“With rising living costs continuing to impact the most vulnerable members of the community, we want to do all we can to alleviate some of the financial burdens facing pensioners in the borough.
“We urge pensioners who are struggling with their bills or other essentials to get in touch as soon as possible to see if they can benefit from the Fund.”
Other support that can be provided by Age UK Solihull include fuel debt relief, energy prepaid cards for those not eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment, emergency food and clothing assistance and support with keeping warm in winter, including the provision of blankets, quilts and warm clothing, plus emergency portable heaters.
The Fund will be available until March 31.
For more or to apply contact Age UK Solihull on 0121 704 7844 or email [email protected].
