People can get free £300 towards Cost of Living if they have 'recent utility bill'

People can get a free £300 cash payment towards the Cost of Living amid the ongoing financial crisis - but there's a strict deadline. Between now and September, local authorities and councils are giving out free cash to help tide families over amid the Cost of Living crisis.

As part of the Household Support Fund, West Berkshire Council has been allocated funding to assist with costs such as energy bills, food, clothing and housing in exceptional circumstances. The Household Support Fund is there to support those most in need.

Priority will be given to households who are ineligible for other government support and vulnerable groups regarding the cost of living crisis. The council is giving out £150 to individuals and £300 to families amid the ongoing financial issues.

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You must provide the following or your application may be rejected, the council warns, with families tasked with providing a declaration of Household income and expenditure, one full month's bank statement for all accounts and confirmation of any savings.

They must also provide a recent utility bill or evidence of a West Berkshire Address and if you are applying for a family household payment, the number of children in the household must be evidenced, i.e Universal Credit /Child Benefit.

You may also provide the following to support your application: evidence of utility debts and other supporting documents relevant to your claim. The council says: "If you are a professional or volunteer and have received an authentication code from the West Berkshire Household Support Fund, then you can apply on behalf of your client."

It adds: "If you wish to apply for an authentication code please contact hsf@westberks.gov.uk." The council goes on to explain: "As with previous years, West Berkshire Council is providing assistance to households in crisis with short-term financial aid. West Berkshire Council will also assist with signposting regarding household needs."