As the cost of living continues to soar across the UK, many households are feeling the strain more than ever. Whether it’s rising grocery prices, soaring utility bills, or the ever-increasing cost of school supplies, making ends meet is becoming increasingly challenging.
To help ease the financial burden, the government has introduced a £150 shopping voucher as part of the Household Support Fund. This one-time, tax-free benefit is designed to support low-income individuals and families by covering essential expenses such as groceries, clothing, and utility bills. Here’s everything you need to know about the £150 voucher, from eligibility to how to apply.
What Is the £150 Voucher?
The £150 shopping voucher is an extension of the Household Support Fund for the period from April 2025 to March 2026. Distributed by local councils across England, it aims to assist households struggling with the rising cost of living. While £150 is the average amount offered, some councils may provide more for families with children or those with specific needs.
Key Details at a Glance:
- Voucher Value: £150 (can vary depending on household or council)
- Eligibility: Low-income households or those receiving benefits
- Application Process: Online or automatic, depending on your council
- Fund Duration: April 2025 – March 2026
- What It Covers: Groceries, clothing, utility bills, school uniforms, etc.
- Administered By: Local councils across England
What Is the Household Support Fund?
Originally launched in 2021, the Household Support Fund provides tailored assistance to families in need. It includes grants, shopping vouchers, and support for energy bills. The £150 voucher is part of an extended effort to help households cope with financial hardship, and in some cases, the amount may be increased depending on your circumstances.
Some councils distribute the vouchers automatically, while others may require a short application. Families with children or those in emergency financial situations may receive additional support.
Where Can You Use the Vouchers?
The vouchers can be redeemed at a wide range of retailers, including supermarkets and local stores. Some councils even partner with specialty retailers like school uniform suppliers. Common stores where you can use your voucher include:
- Tesco
- Asda
- Aldi
- Morrisons
- Sainsbury’s
- Iceland
- Argos
- B&M
- Halfords
In certain cases, you may also be able to use the voucher for energy top-ups or clothing purchases. Always check with your local council for a full list of approved vendors in your area.
Who Qualifies?
Eligibility for the £150 voucher varies slightly by council, but generally, it’s available to:
- Households receiving Universal Credit, Income Support, or Pension Credit
- Those enrolled in Council Tax Reduction schemes
- Low-income households not receiving benefits
- People facing financial emergencies or who’ve recently lost their job
- Families with children, carers, or pensioners on limited incomes
Some councils distribute vouchers automatically based on benefit data, while others may require you to apply online, submitting necessary documents like ID, proof of income, or benefit letters.
How to Apply
If your local council isn’t issuing vouchers automatically, here’s how you can apply:
- Use the GOV.UK “Find Your Local Council” tool to locate your council’s website.
- Look for information on the Household Support Fund and check the eligibility criteria.
- Complete the online application (if needed).
- Upload requested documents such as ID and proof of income.
- Once approved, you’ll receive your voucher, either by email, post, or as an e-voucher on your phone.
The voucher is typically valid for up to three months, so be sure to use it before it expires.
Real-Life Example
Sarah, a single mother of two from Sheffield, lost her part-time job earlier this year and found it difficult to cover food and school expenses. She received a £150 shopping voucher from her council and used it to buy essentials like milk, pasta, and school uniforms.
“It really made a difference,” Sarah shared. “The voucher gave me a bit of breathing room at a time when things were tough. I could stock up on what we needed without worrying so much about the next bill.”
Tips to Maximise Your Voucher
- Prioritise essentials like food, toiletries, and school supplies.
- Use loyalty programs like Tesco Clubcard or Nectar for additional discounts.
- Compare prices between stores to stretch the value of your voucher.
- Be aware of the expiration date—most vouchers are valid for 3 months.
- Some councils allow you to split the voucher and use it over several shopping trips.
Final Thoughts
The £150 shopping voucher, though modest, can be a lifeline for families facing mounting costs. It helps to cover essentials, from groceries to school uniforms, and provides some relief during financially stressful times. If you qualify, don’t miss out on this opportunity to ease the burden. Check with your local council and apply today—every bit of support counts.
FAQs
Can I get more than one voucher?
Some councils may offer additional support based on household size or specific needs (e.g., children or disabilities). Reach out to your council for clarification.
What happens if I lose my voucher?
Most councils can reissue lost or expired vouchers if you report the issue promptly and provide verification.
Is there an income cap to qualify?
Income thresholds vary by council, so even if you don’t receive benefits, you may still qualify based on household income or recent hardship.
