Good news for families in Birmingham and surrounding areas – £200 relief money can be received again, date has been set!
There is good news for many people living in Birmingham and across the UK. The Government has announced plans to once again provide a £200 Cost of Living Payment. This payment will be made through the Household Support Fund (HSF), with a new date now set.
As before, the DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) provides funds to local councils so that they can provide direct financial support to families in need. The previous round of HSF, i.e. Round 6, ended on 31 March 2025. At that time, eligible people living in Birmingham could apply for a £200 grant through the Hardship Grant Community Fund.
What’s new now?
Although the previous application closed in March, a new announcement has been made – Round 7 of HSF is now open from 1 April 2025. Applications for this in Birmingham will open again from June 2025.
Who can apply?
People who have already received a hardship grant once in the last 12 months cannot apply this time. The aim is to help as many families in need as possible, rather than the same family being applied for again and again.
The scheme is run by Birmingham City Council and BVSC (Birmingham Voluntary Service Council). A statement from BVSC said:
“If you already sent an enquiry during Round 6 and received confirmation via email, you are now on the waiting list. You will be contacted by the HSF team in the next 6 to 8 weeks to complete your full application.”
What will change this time?
No new conditions or changes have been confirmed for Round 7 yet, but it is expected that the application process will be made easier or more people will be considered eligible this time. As inflation and the cost of living crisis continue in the country, the government and local councils may introduce more flexible rules this time.
In addition, some special groups may get priority, such as:
- Older citizens
- Families with young children
- People with disability
So keep an eye on your local council website or government channels.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs):
When can I apply for £200 support in Birmingham?
Applications will open again in June 2025, when the new phase of HSF is fully operational.
Can I apply again if I received a grant last year?
No. You can only apply if it has been 12 months since you last received support.
If I applied in Round 6 and received an approval email, do I have to apply again?
No. If you have received an email, you are already on the waiting list. The HSF team will contact you in the next 6 to 8 weeks to help you fill out the complete form.
How to apply in June?
When the application starts, you will have to fill out an enquiry form on the BVSC or Birmingham City Council website. You will then be told the further process. Keep an eye on the official website for this.
Will the amount be £200 this time too?
The last time the assistance was £200, but the amount this time has not been confirmed yet. It is likely that this amount will remain the same, unless the council makes any changes.
Conclusion:
This news is a relief for Birmingham families that they are going to get help again. If you have not taken this assistance in the last 12 months, you can apply in June 2025. The government and local bodies try to ensure that this assistance reaches those who really need it. In such a situation, it is very important to get the right information and apply in time.