Thousands of state pensioners across Derbyshire are waking up to welcome news this November, finding letters containing a one-off £110 payment designed to ease financial pressures in the run-up to Christmas.
What is the Household Support Fund?
This vital financial support is being distributed thanks to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Household Support Fund. The DWP provides the money to local councils, and Derbyshire has been allocated a further grant for use until 31 March 2026.
The council has confirmed that the fund will be distributed in several ways over the coming months, targeting those most in need. This includes specific cost of living payments for low-income pensioners and adults receiving home care support.
Who is eligible for the £110 payment?
The council has outlined clear eligibility criteria for this particular one-off payment. To receive the £110 Post Office voucher, you must fall into one of two categories.
Firstly, the payment is for pensioners aged 66 and over who are also entitled to means-tested council tax support.
Secondly, it is available for adults who receive home care support from the council and are on a low income. Home care support is defined as care received in a person's own home or local community to help them remain safe and independent.
How and when will payments be made?
Letters containing the vouchers are being sent to eligible households throughout November and early December 2025.
If you believe you meet the criteria but have not received a letter by the expected time, or if you have a question about your voucher, you are urged to contact the Household Support Fund team directly at 01629 535070.
This is not the only support being offered. District and borough councils have also been allocated funds to assist with council tax and rent arrears, as well as homelessness and temporary housing in cases where other schemes do not apply.
Furthermore, funds have been awarded to local voluntary organisations. These groups will work within the community to identify and provide grants to hard-to-reach or isolated pensioners, as well as unpaid carer households who are facing hardship.
For more information on the support available locally, residents can check the council's cost of living pages. The GOV.UK website also hosts a wide range of information about the help available to households.
