Household Support Fund (HSF)

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced an extension to the Household Support Fund (HSF) to run from 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026.

Funded by the UK government, this funding is made available to support those most in need and who are experiencing financial difficulties with the cost of essentials. The fund is intended to support a wide range of households including families, pensioners and people with disabilities.

The HSF can fund support with:

  • energy bills, water bills and any fuel used for heating and cooking
  • food
  • clothing, including uniform and warm winter clothing
  • blankets, duvets and other household items to keep warm
  • energy efficient equipment such as slow cookers, fridges, freezers and cookers
  • other wider essential costs such as hygiene, cleaning products and transport

Households in Solihull can access support by applying to the following schemes:

Discretionary Crisis Fund (DCF)

Provided by Solihull Council

DCF provides support with energy costs and essential household items for people in urgent need. It can also make referrals to food banks but does not provide cash or loans.

How to apply

Please call us on 0121 704 8284 or visit the webpage for an application form

Community Advice Hubs

Provided by Age UK Solihull

Open to all residents (aged 18 years+), the Community Advice Hubs provide essential household items, support with energy arrears and support to people experiencing debt.

How to apply

For further information please visit the webpage or telephone the Community Advice Hubs on 0121 704 7844, Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.00pm.

Solihull Food Bank Network

Provided by:

  • Helping Hands (Christian Renewal Centre)
  • We Care UK
  • North Solihull Food Bank (Kingfisher)

Providing food parcels to people who do not have immediate access to food.

How to apply

For an emergency food parcel please call us on 0121 704 8001 to request a referral.

Biomass Heating Scheme - boiler servicing and repairs

Provided by Act on Energy

Open to tenants of Solihull Community Housing with biomass heating systems.

Support with boiler service and/or repair for eligible households.

How to apply

For advice and support please ring the free Act on Energy advice line on:

You can find out more information on Act On Energy’s website.

For further information on more support for households in Solihull please visit our other Here2Help webpages.

You can also find additional support on the Government’s Cost of Living Hub.

UK Government logo