The Household Support Fund administered by Preston City Council has re-opened to support those in need in the city.
After the sixth round of funding closed in March, this new round of funding aims to help assist local residents who have been most affected by the rise in living costs.
Applications have already opened and will close on 31 March 2026 or until the funds have been exhausted.
Cabinet member for communities, social justice and night-time economy councillor Peter Kelly said: “We’re delighted that we can continue this scheme and help those who need help and support to Preston residents.
“I would urge all eligible residents in need of help and assistance with energy and water bills, food and essential items to apply.”
Designed not only to help households in need, in particular families with children and older residents, the fund has also helped keep Food Banks operating.
Helping with short-term assistance with living expenses, they additionally offer guidance and referrals to other local services to improve longer-term financial security.
What’s covered?
The kinds of costs covered under the scheme include
- food
- gas and electricity costs
- water
- household bills
- clothing
- essentials linked to energy, water and food
- Housing costs (if all other sources of help have been sought)
What’s not covered?
- Items considered not essential such as tumble driers, TVs etc
- Debts incurred through gambling
- Loan or credit card debt or overdraft debt
- Applications from those with sufficient income, capital, savings or assets
- Household items considered to be responsibility of landlords
- Moving costs and rent arrears
What are the rules on applying?
- Only one application is allowed per household, and there has to be three months between applications
- You must be a resident in the Preston area
- You must be experiencing financial hardship and not have enough money to meet your immediate short-term needs
- All supporting evidence might be provided at the time of application or it will be declined
- The application period runs from Tuesday 27 May to 31 March 2026, or until the fund has been exhausted (whichever is sooner).
For full details on how to apply and eligibility, visit here.
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