Thousands of households in one London borough are set to receive direct financial support in time for the festive season, as a new wave of Cost of Living payments is rolled out.
Targeted Support for Vulnerable Residents
Greenwich Council has confirmed a partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and the Labour Party government to administer the Household Support Grant. The local authority has stated its commitment to running support schemes from April 2025 to March 2026, with a clear goal of helping residents "stay warm, well and safe."
The council is proactively identifying and contacting residents it deems most vulnerable to financial hardship to facilitate the payments. A spokesperson emphasised the scheme is designed to provide a crucial safety net during the expensive winter period.
Who Qualifies for the Christmas Payments?
The eligibility criteria for the support are specifically targeted. Families will qualify for a payment of £50 per child if their child is already receiving means-tested free school meals at a Royal Greenwich school. This also extends to low-income children under the age of five who attend Royal Greenwich children's centres or registered childcare settings.
However, a significantly higher payment of £250 is earmarked for two specific groups:
- Care-leavers under the support of Royal Greenwich.
- Vulnerable households with no recourse to public funds (NRPF).
The council has stated that eligibility for these larger sums will be confirmed internally by the dedicated Care Leavers’ and NRPF teams. Those who are eligible should expect to be contacted directly via text message or email with details on how they will receive the money.
Additional Support and How to Apply
Further assistance is available for residents in temporary accommodation. The council has pledged to issue weekly payments of £10 per person to Royal Greenwich residents placed in temporary hotel accommodation. Individuals in this situation who do not receive a payment are advised to speak to their Temporary Accommodation Officer.
Beyond the Christmas-specific grants, the council's Emergency Support Scheme (ESS) remains open. This discretionary fund provides help to residents facing a sudden crisis, such as a house fire, or those temporarily struggling to cover essential costs. The council notes it has invested to ensure this scheme can continue.
Any Royal Greenwich resident can apply for the ESS at any time, though all awards are subject to meeting the specific eligibility criteria. For those who believe they should qualify for the Christmas payments but have not been contacted, the council advises speaking to a personal adviser or caseworker.
