Support is available for Hammersmith & Fulham residents who are struggling with the cost of living.
Our dedicated cost-of-living webpages make it easier for you to find out what help is on offer and answers frequently asked questions if you're unsure where to start.
We've also highlighted some support schemes below that may be helpful for you and your family.
Hardship support
We are here to help. If you're in a financial emergency, apply for a hardship prevention payment.
These are payments of up to £900 to help with essential living costs, such as food, gas and electricity. This includes older residents in fuel hardship or who are worried about keeping warm through the winter.
Support for older residents
Residents aged 66 and over with a low income are eligible for pension credit payments – worth £3,900 a year on average. This is money, separate from your state pension, that helps pay for living costs including council tax, ground rent, and service charges.
Those 75 and over who claim pension credit are also eligible for a free TV licence.
Residents who need help with their daily care can also apply for support including Attendance Allowance if they are not already receiving personal independence payments.
We're also the only council in England to offer free home care to our older and Disabled residents. This is support with everything from collecting shopping to personal care and is designed to help residents stay independent and living in their own homes. If you or someone you know would benefit from this care, please reach out and ask for help.
Support for families
Struggling with the school costs?
We can help with school uniform and travel grants. We also serve up free breakfasts daily in our 22 primary schools and offer a free lunch at our school holiday clubs.
Parents can also receive up to £500 every three months for each child, to help with the cost of childcare. Find details here.
Families with a child who has health problems could be entitled to Disability Living Allowance, which could provide extra money to help with the costs of extra care needs.
H&F's cost-of-living team
If you are a resident of Hammersmith & Fulham, our cost-of-living support team can help you to access support and provide guidance and advice on local services.
Contact us on our free phone number 0800 917 6994 – the line is open 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday. Or visit us at 145 King Street in Hammersmith, between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Alternatively, you can email us at costoflivingteam@lbhf.gov.uk
