Families can get FREE white goods worth £400 or extra £500 cost of living cash this summer
STRUGGLING families could be in for a much-needed summer boost.
An extra £500 in free cash or white goods worth £400 are now up for grabs.
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The money is part of the Brent Resident Support Fund (RSF), a council-run scheme aimed at helping residents hit hardest by the cost of living crisis.
From food and fuel bills to mental health support and council tax arrears, the fund is designed to give a lifeline to those finding it tough to keep up with everyday expenses.
And the best part is that those who qualify, don't have to pay a penny back.
You could get help covering the cost of essentials like blankets, sanitary items, boiler repairs or even score a brand new washing machine or fridge if you've just moved into an unfurnished property.
There's a cap of £400 for white goods, while the total payout for any one household is up to £500.
But you'll have to act fast and make sure you meet the criteria.
Who is eligible?
To qualify, you need to:
Live in Brent
Be aged 18 or over
Have less than £6,000 in savings
Be struggling with day-to-day costs or facing an emergency
Only one application is allowed per couple every 12 months, so if your partner's already applied this year, you'll need to wait your turn.
To apply, you'll need to show recent bank statements for both you and your partner (if you have one), plus a recent utility bill.
Families can get FREE washing machines, fridges and kids' beds or £200 payments this summer – and you can apply now
If you're applying for help with internet access or tech, you'll need to use a separate digital form.
You can fill out the application online and if you get stuck, Brent Customer Services are on hand to help you through it.
The RSF is funded by Brent Council and the government's Household Support Fund, which has been extended to help Brits through another tough year of rising costs.
Household Support Fund explained
Sun Savers Editor Lana Clements explains what you need to know about the Household Support Fund.
If you're battling to afford energy and water bills, food or other essential items and services, the Household Support Fund can act as a vital lifeline.
The financial support is a little-known way for struggling families to get extra help with the cost of living.
Every council in England has been given a share of £421million cash by the government to distribute to local low income households.
Each local authority chooses how to pass on the support. Some offer vouchers whereas others give direct cash payments.
In many instances, the value of support is worth hundreds of pounds to individual families.
Just as the support varies between councils, so does the criteria for qualifying.
Many councils offer the help to households on selected benefits or they may base help on the level of household income.
The key is to get in touch with your local authority to see exactly what support is on offer.
And don't delay, the scheme has been extended until April 2025 but your council may dish out their share of the Household Support Fund before this date.
Once the cash is gone, you may find they cannot provide any extra help so it's crucial you apply as soon as possible.
It comes as more families turn to local authorities for help amid rocketing food prices, energy bills and housing costs.
To check if you're eligible and start your application, visit brent.gov.uk and search for the Resident Support Fund.
What if you don't live in Brent?
The £742million Household Support Fund has been allocated to councils across England to help residents facing financial hardship.
You do not need to live in Brent to apply.
If you're on a low income, receiving benefits, or struggling to afford essentials, you may be eligible for support.
The type of help available varies by area and may include cash payments, food vouchers, or help with energy bills.
Applications are handled by local councils. Some have already opened their schemes, while others are expected to launch soon.
Residents are advised to check their local council's website or social media for updates.
Many councils have dedicated Household Support Fund pages with details on how to apply.
In some cases, councils may contact eligible households directly by post.
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