Vital financial support for families facing rising bills will become available from next week, as a new application window for the Household Support Fund opens.
Application Details and Eligibility
From 9am on Monday 8 December 2025, eligible households in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council area can apply for a £150 grant. This marks the seventh round of funding distributed locally from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) scheme. The application window will remain open until 4.30pm on Friday 30 January 2026.
The fund is designed to help residents who are struggling to afford essential costs, such as food shopping or energy bills. The local authority has confirmed that the Citizen’s Advice BCP team will manage the application process and provide the grants.
Wraparound Support and Further Payments
Councillor Millie Earl, Leader of BCP Council, urged eligible residents to apply. "I’m pleased the HSF has been extended for a seventh round to support people with the cost-of-living," she said. "The initiative can provide struggling households with crucial financial support, as well as practical advice and guidance from experts to help residents make their money go further."
Beyond the direct payment, successful applicants can access additional support. This includes expert advice on benefits, help with issues like homelessness and domestic abuse, plus practical guidance on budgeting and managing debt.
Importantly, the council confirmed that HSF grant vouchers valued at £150 will be offered in two rounds over the funding period. This means that qualifying households could receive up to £300 in total support over the coming year.
How to Apply and Get Help
Residents who believe they may be eligible for the Household Support Fund are encouraged to contact the Citizen’s Advice BCP team when applications open on Monday. The council continues to work with community partners through its ‘Together We Can’ partnership to deliver a range of support services.
Councillor Earl added a final call to action: “I urge anyone who thinks they might be eligible to apply, and to make the most of the practical advice and guidance on offer.”
