The Household Support Fund was a government-funded scheme that helped Central Bedfordshire residents experiencing financial hardship. The fund ran from 1 October 2021 until 31 March 2026.
During this period, we used funding to provide a range of practical support to eligible households, including:
- supermarket vouchers during school holidays for children and young people eligible for free school meals
- supermarket vouchers for eligible children receiving 2-year-old funding for disadvantaged families or Early Years Pupil Premium
- supermarket vouchers for eligible care leavers aged 18 to 25
- support for eligible children with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) attending independent day schools
- crisis funding for families and adults experiencing financial hardship, including help with food and fuel costs
- funding for voluntary and community organisations to provide food, utility support and other essential assistance to residents in need.
We also worked with local voluntary and community sector organisations to distribute funding across Central Bedfordshire, helping thousands of residents access essential support throughout the lifetime of the scheme.
The Household Support Fund was funded by the UK Government and the government's funding for the scheme has now come to an end.
Need help now?
Although the Household Support Fund has closed, support is still available if you are experiencing financial hardship.
If you are experiencing a financial crisis, you may be able to access help through the Crisis and Resilience Fund. Further advice and support is available on our Cost of Living webpages.