Bracknell Forest, like other local authorities, experienced a reduction in funding compared to previous rounds of Household Support Fund. We therefore had to decide to how best to distribute the available funds.
A review has been undertaken and unfortunately, due to the reduction in funding, there will not be any payment for the half term break in February 2026. Therefore, the Cost-of-Living Scheme is now closed.
For the October 2025 half term break, vouchers and payments will be distributed or paid shortly.
However, the decision was taken to pay a £20 voucher per child, per week of the Christmas holidays 2025. These will be distributed by schools in due course. The cost-of-living payment will be sent directly to the bank accounts of parents in due course. This will only be paid to those who were awarded the Cost-of-Living payment prior to 31 August 2025 (subject to criteria).
From June 2025 to March 2026, the Department of Work and Pensions is providing funding through the Household Support Fund. We will use this funding to support low income households with the rising cost of living, including energy, food and essential bills.
Below, we outline how we will be distributing the Household Support Fund.
Application based support
The Local Welfare Scheme will be enhanced to enable Bracknell Forest residents in financial hardship who would not otherwise automatically qualify for support to apply. To find out if you are eligible, see below:
Main Local Welfare Scheme – this is based on our existing assessment criteria and will include a financial assessment of your income and assets.
Read about and apply for our Local Welfare Scheme
If you are a family facing financial difficulties, view our cost of living support section to find out about the assistance available to you.
Policy
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