Help with the cost of living

Get support with bills including energy, broadband and food costs.

Household bills support

Household Support Fund

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has enabled us to provide vital practical support to households since 2021. Essex County Council has been allocated £9,436,543 by the DWP until 31st March 2025. This is so that we can provide support to households who may otherwise struggle with things like:

  • energy costs
  • buying groceries
  • paying household bills

Funding will be available through different access points, including:

  • the Essential Living Fund
  • food support groups
  • community supermarkets

Support can also be accessed through the following communitary and voluntary organisations:

Essex Essential Living Fund

The Essential Living Fund is available for anyone living in Essex to apply for support.  You will need to answer questions about your income, earnings and savings. You also need to give proof of your financial situation.

The Essential Living Fund can help pay for:

  • furniture
  • household furnishings
  • white goods
  • clothing and footwear, including school uniforms in exceptional circumstances
  • general living expenses such as groceries, nappies, toiletries and money for pay-as-you-go fuel meters

Apply on the Southend Borough Council website.

Get low cost broadband

If you’re a low-income family receiving Universal Credit or other benefits, you may be able to access a discounted broadband service. 

Save money on energy bills

You can get advice as well as funding to help cut your energy costs.

Find out if you can get Pension Credit

If you’re over State Pension age and on a low income, you might be able to receive Pension Credit.

Find out if you are eligible for Pension Credit on GOV.UK.

Getting Pension Credit can mean you receive other benefits like the Winter Fuel payment.