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As we head into the colder months, we want to make sure all residents know about the financial support available to help with winter living costs. This update highlights the latest support schemes from local authorities and the UK Government, for both working residents and those of State Pension age.
City of York Council (CYC)
CYC is offering a £100 cash payment to help with winter living costs through the Household Support Fund (Round 7). Letters have been sent to eligible residents inviting them to apply.
You may be eligible if you are:
- Of working age and receiving Council Tax Support.
- Receiving a Severe Mental Impairment disregard on your Council Tax account.
- Receiving a Severe Mental Impairment full exemption.
- Receiving a Carers disregard.
- Receiving a Disabled band reduction.
Important Notes
- Only one payment per household, even if you qualify under more than one category
- Eligibility is based on an active Council Tax Support or discount claim as of 1 September 2025.
- Letters include a web link and unique reference number to apply online.
- Deadline to apply is midnight on Sunday 23 November.
- You will need to upload a current bank statement to confirm your details.
- Payments will be made by bank transfer.
Hartlepool Borough Council
Residents in Hartlepool may receive support automatically if they fall into one of the following groups:
- Children receiving free school meals or pupil premium: £50 shopping voucher (issued through schools).
- Pensioners receiving Local Council Tax Support: £50 voucher or bank payment.
Other residents can get help with food, energy, and essential items by contacting local support organisations such as Citizens Advice and Hartlepool Foodbank.
North Yorkshire Council
Residents who receive a 75% or greater discount on their council tax bill through the Council Tax Reduction Scheme (as of 1 September 2025) will receive a £190 e-voucher for food and essentials.
Key information
- Letters with claim codes were sent by 23 October 2025.
- Vouchers must be claimed by 12 November 2025.
- Residents receiving only the 25% single-person discount are not eligible.
- Winter Fuel Payment for Residents of State Pension Age
The UK Government has announced updates to the Winter Fuel Payment for 2025. If you were born before 22 September 1959, you may receive £100 to £300 to help with heating costs.
Key Information
- Most eligible residents will receive this automatically—no need to apply.
- Letters confirming the amount will arrive in October or November.
- Payments will be made in November or December.
Eligibility Notes
- You will not be eligible If your taxable income exceeds £35,000 and you do not receive Pension Credit or another income-based benefit.
- You may not be eligible if your heating is provided by a heat network.
- If you receive the payment but are not entitled, HMRC will recover the amount through the tax system.
- You can check eligibility or opt out using the links provided in the letter from the government.
You may also be eligible for a one off discount of £150 off your electricity bill. Find out more - Warm Home Discount Scheme: Overview
Need Help?
If you need support or guidance with any of the topics above, please contact the Money and Benefits Advice Team:
Tel: 0800 587 0211
Email: MBA@JRHT.org.uk