Kelly
As everyday costs continue to rise across the UK, many households are finding it harder than ever to make ends meet.
To offer some relief, the government is issuing £150 free shopping vouchers through the Household Support Fund—a tax-free, one-time benefit aimed at helping low-income families and individuals manage essential expenses like groceries, clothing, and utility bills.
Whether you’re struggling with food costs, school supplies, or simply trying to stretch your budget a little further, this voucher could make a real difference. Here’s everything you need to know about how to claim it, who’s eligible, and where it can be used.
What Is the £150 Voucher?
The £150 shopping voucher is part of the government’s extended Household Support Fund for the period April 2025 to March 2026. It is distributed by local councils across England and is designed to help households struggling with the rising cost of living.
Key Details at a Glance:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Voucher Value | £150 (varies by household or council) |
| Eligibility | Low-income or benefit-receiving households |
| Application Process | Online or automatic, depending on your council |
| Fund Duration | April 2025 – March 2026 |
| Use | Groceries, clothing, utility top-ups, school uniforms, etc. |
| Administered By | Local councils across England |
What Is the Household Support Fund?
The Household Support Fund (HSF) was originally introduced in 2021 to assist families facing financial hardship. Now extended with additional funding, it allows local councils to provide tailored support—including cash grants, shopping vouchers, and energy bill assistance.
While £150 is the average voucher amount, some councils offer more for families with children, people with disabilities, or those facing emergency needs. Some vouchers are sent out automatically, while others require a short application.
Where Can You Use the Vouchers?
The vouchers can typically be redeemed at major UK retailers and supermarkets for essential goods. Some councils may also partner with local stores or specialty retailers like school uniform suppliers. Commonly accepted stores include:
- Tesco
- Asda
- Aldi
- Morrisons
- Sainsbury’s
- Iceland
- Argos
- B&M
- Halfords
In some cases, vouchers can also be applied to energy credit, heating oil, or clothing items. Be sure to check with your local council for a full list of approved vendors in your area.
Who Qualifies?
Eligibility for the £150 voucher varies slightly by local council but generally includes:
- Households receiving Universal Credit, Income Support, or Pension Credit
- Those enrolled in Council Tax Reduction schemes
- Low-income households not necessarily receiving benefits
- Individuals experiencing financial emergencies or recent job loss
- Families with children, carers, or pensioners on limited incomes
Some councils distribute vouchers automatically based on existing benefit data. Others require a simple online application where you’ll submit identification and proof of income.
How to Apply
If your local council is not issuing vouchers automatically, follow these steps:
- Find your local council’s website using the GOV.UK “Find Your Local Council” tool.
- Look for Household Support Fund information and eligibility criteria.
- Submit an online application, if required.
- Upload any requested documents, such as ID, proof of income, or benefit letters.
- Receive your voucher—via email, post, or as a texted e-voucher to your phone.
Once received, the voucher can be used immediately, typically within a 3-month validity period.
Real-Life Example
Sarah, a single mother of two from Sheffield, lost her part-time job earlier this year. Struggling to cover food and school costs, she received a £150 shopping voucher from her council.
“I used it at Asda to stock up on essentials like pasta, fruit, milk, and kids’ clothing. It gave me breathing room when I really needed it,” she shared. “These vouchers really do help.”
Smart Tips to Maximise Your Voucher
- Prioritise essentials like food, toiletries, and school supplies.
- Use loyalty programs like Tesco Clubcard or Nectar for extra discounts.
- Compare prices before shopping to stretch the value of the voucher.
- Check for expiration dates—most vouchers must be used within 3 months.
- Split usage if allowed—some councils offer partial vouchers for multiple trips.
The £150 shopping voucher under the Household Support Fund may seem small, but it offers real relief to families facing rising living costs. From buying groceries to covering school expenses, this one-time payment can help fill the gap when money is tight.
Whether your voucher arrives automatically or requires a short application, don’t miss this opportunity to ease the pressure. Check with your local council today and claim the support you’re entitled to—every little bit helps.
FAQs
Can I get more than one voucher?
Some councils issue additional support based on household size or specific needs (e.g., children or disability). Contact your council for clarification.
What happens if I lose my voucher?
In most cases, councils can reissue lost or expired vouchers if you report it promptly and provide verification.
Is there an income cap to qualify?
Income thresholds vary by council. Even if you don’t receive benefits, you may still qualify based on household income or recent hardship.