Portsmouth City Council will shut its Exceptional Hardship Scheme at midday this Thursday, 21 August, due to overwhelming applications and limited funding availability.
The closure comes ahead of the originally planned 1 September deadline as the council manages unprecedented demand for financial support. The scheme will reopen for two additional application periods during autumn and early in 2026.
All current applications will still be processed, though the council warns of delays with assessments taking up to 28 days due to a significant backlog of cases.
The council has received more than 1,600 applications across two rounds this year, distributing over £300,000 to residents experiencing financial difficulties.
Alternative support remains available through other Household Support Fund programmes, including the Family Voucher scheme and a forthcoming Utilities Payment Scheme launching later this summer.
The Household Support Fund represents government funding designed to assist residents facing hardship with essential costs including food and energy bills, helping prevent households from entering financial crisis.
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Utilities Payment Scheme
A new scheme will launch to address rising energy and water costs. Eligible residents in low-income households may qualify if they meet specific criteria including pensioners receiving Personal Independence Payment or Attendance Allowance, carers receiving Carer’s Allowance, care leavers, and single parents on Universal Credit.
Household income limits apply: £935 monthly for single adults or £1,350 for couples and families. Successful applicants receive £150 for single households or £200 for families.
Applications open at summer’s end. Interested residents can register online and will be contacted when applications commence.
Exceptional Hardship Support
Residents facing severe financial hardship who cannot afford essentials may apply for exceptional hardship payments, provided they meet eligibility requirements and haven’t received support within six months.
Applications require income evidence, bank statements, and details of financial improvement efforts. Four application windows operate annually, with the third opening in October and the fourth in January.
Residents receiving council support through social care or housing services may request assistance with applications through their support workers.
Those unable to apply online can contact the helpline on 023 9268 8010.
Family Support
Eligible families will receive £50 supermarket vouchers per child this summer. Families with children in years R-11 receiving benefits-related free school meals receive vouchers automatically through schools.
Low-income families with children aged 0-19 not qualifying for free school meals, or families expecting children (20+ weeks pregnant), may apply separately.
Additional Support Services
The council operates a dedicated cost of living hub providing comprehensive information on essential costs, employment opportunities, health services, and housing matters.
Free money advice helps residents manage expenses, address debt, and ensure they receive all entitled benefits.
Local foodbanks and community pantries receive council funding, whilst household essential services support residents struggling with basic items.
Energy bill assistance is available through Switched on Portsmouth (0800 260 5907), including free home energy advice visits for low-income households and those receiving disability benefits.
Social tariffs from energy and water companies offer reduced rates for eligible low-income customers.
This service applies to Portsmouth City Council residents in postcodes PO1-PO6 and specific PO7 areas. Hampshire residents should visit Hampshire County Council’s website for local support options.
