DWP to Provide £150 Payment for Pensioners Who Missed Winter Fuel Support

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has launched a £742 million Household Support Fund (HSF) for 2025-26, aimed at helping struggling households across England with the rising costs of living.

This funding will be distributed through local councils, each of which will implement its own schemes based on the needs of their communities.

DWP Support to Address Essential Living Costs

The newly announced Household Support Fund seeks to ease the financial burden on low-income households by offering targeted assistance for food, energy bills, and housing expenses.

Local authorities across England have been given the responsibility to manage and disburse their share of the fund directly to eligible residents.

Tailored Payments in Leeds

Leeds City Council has allocated a portion of its funding to provide direct support to specific groups:

• £150 will be awarded to pensioners receiving Council Tax Support who do not qualify for the 2025-26 Winter Fuel Payment.
• Families with dependent children who receive Council Tax Support will get £125.
• Childless households that qualify for Council Tax Support may receive £50.

These payments are automatically issued, meaning residents do not need to apply—the council will reach out to eligible households. The distribution will take place throughout autumn and winter 2025.

East Riding of Yorkshire Council: One-Time £425 Payment

The East Riding of Yorkshire Council has received £3.63 million from the HSF for the 2025-26 cycle. The council is offering one-off payments of £425 to qualifying residents facing financial strain.

To be eligible, applicants must:

• Reside in the East Riding area.
• Be responsible for paying council tax and/or rent.
• Have savings below £1,000.
• Be struggling with basic needs like food, energy, and housing costs.

Importantly, benefits such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA), and Attendance Allowance are excluded from income assessments, ensuring fairer eligibility reviews. Former care leavers in the area may also be considered for additional aid under this scheme.

City of York’s Discretionary Assistance Plan

York City Council is rolling out a discretionary scheme to support residents facing immediate financial challenges.

The program is designed for York residents with low income or minimal savings who are in urgent need of help covering essential costs.

Applications are means-tested, with each case assessed on an individual basis. This enables the council to provide customized financial support that meets the specific and pressing needs of residents.

The £742 million Household Support Fund offers vital relief for families and individuals across England during the upcoming colder months.

By allowing local councils the flexibility to target their communities’ unique needs, the DWP ensures that essential support reaches those who need it most.

FAQs

Do I need to apply to receive Household Support Fund payments?

No, in most areas like Leeds, eligible residents will be contacted directly by the council. Applications may be required only in discretionary schemes like York’s.

Are disability-related benefits counted as income for eligibility?

No, payments such as PIP, DLA, and Attendance Allowance are not considered income for these schemes.

When will the payments be distributed?

Distributions are scheduled for autumn and winter 2025, but exact dates may vary by local council. Check with your local authority for specific timelines.