As inflation and energy bills continue to put pressure on UK households, a new £320 Cost of Living boost is being rolled out this summer for those on Universal Credit and other low-income benefits.
Local authorities are now distributing supermarket vouchers and direct cash grants to ease the financial burden on struggling families, thanks to the latest phase of the Department for Work and Pensions’ (DWP) Household Support Fund (HSF).
The scheme offers vital financial relief to families ahead of the back-to-school season and has already launched in areas such as North Northamptonshire and Doncaster, with other councils expected to follow suit.
What Is the £320 Cost of Living Payment?
The £320 Cost of Living payment is part of the DWP’s ongoing commitment to supporting vulnerable households through the Household Support Fund, a UK government initiative originally launched in October 2021.
The fund provides targeted help through local councils to low-income households, including Universal Credit claimants, families with children receiving free school meals, and those on Housing Benefit or Council Tax Reduction.
Each council determines how funds are distributed, and the payment may be issued as:
- Supermarket vouchers
- One-off cash grants
- Support with school-related or utility costs
Councils Offering £300–£320 Payments
| Council | Payment Type | Amount | Eligible Groups |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Northamptonshire | Supermarket Vouchers | Up to £320 | Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, Free School Meals |
| Doncaster (City Council) | One-off Cash Grant | £300 | Same as above; includes housing element recipients on Universal Credit |
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the £320 cost of living support, applicants must typically meet one or more of the following conditions (criteria may vary slightly by council):
- Receive Universal Credit (especially with the housing element)
- Receive Housing Benefit or Local Council Tax Reduction
- Have children receiving free school meals
- Live within the local authority offering the grant
Importantly, the scheme is non-repayable—meaning the payment does not affect your existing benefits and does not need to be returned.
Each local council may also include additional support such as:
- Help with white goods replacement
- Support for emergency energy costs
- Food parcels or lower-energy cooking appliances
Why This Payment Matters
With food prices, utility bills, and school costs remaining high, this £320 boost can make a crucial difference for low-income families. The funding aims to cover essential needs, from feeding children during the summer holidays to helping parents with back-to-school expenses.
Jason Smithers, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council, emphasized the importance of the Household Support Fund:
“We’ve opted to fund food for children on free school meals during holidays and ease the burden of back-to-school costs. I urge residents not to miss this opportunity.”
He also highlighted the vital role of community organisations and charities in helping distribute the aid effectively to those most in need.
How to Apply for the £320 Cost of Living Support
If you live in a qualifying area, you must apply through your local council’s website. Here’s what you’ll likely need:
- Your National Insurance Number
- Proof of your Universal Credit or benefit status
- Recent utility bills or ID
- A short explanation of your financial hardship (in some cases)
Remember: these payments are often first-come, first-served while funding lasts, so applying early is essential.
Important Dates
- North Northamptonshire Applications Opened: August 4, 2025
- Doncaster Council Payments: Available Summer 2025 (rolling application basis)
- Household Support Fund End Date: March 2026 (current phase)
While deadlines may vary, most councils will close applications early if funding runs out, so don’t delay.
The £320 Cost of Living boost is a timely intervention for Universal Credit recipients and others struggling with the cost of essentials. With the help of the Household Support Fund, councils like Doncaster and North Northamptonshire are stepping up to ensure their communities receive the help they deserve.
If you’re eligible, make sure to apply promptly via your local authority and take advantage of this non-repayable financial lifeline. Whether it’s food, school expenses, or general household needs, this payment could ease the pressure in a critical time.
FAQs
Can I receive the £320 payment if I already claimed a previous Cost of Living payment?
Yes, the Household Support Fund operates independently of earlier government-wide Cost of Living payments. You can still apply if eligible.
Does this payment count as income or affect my Universal Credit?
No. The £320 payment is non-taxable, does not count as income, and won’t affect your benefit entitlements.
What if my council isn’t listed—can I still apply?
Each council manages its own fund. If your area isn’t listed, check your local council’s website or contact them to see if support is available.
