Thousands of parents to get £108 to spend on their weekly shop – are you eligible?

HOUSEHOLDS in Derbyshire will be eligible for grants aimed at reducing the burden on food shops.

Currently, thousands of parents are struggling as steep inflation and high energy costs continue to affect the country.

The Household Support Fund (HSF) has allocated funds to families who need it most and has announced a new scheme for those living in Derbyshire.

If you live in Derbyshire you may be eligible for a payment of up to £84 and an additional voucher of £36 per child for groceries.

If you think you are eligible you can apply for the grant by phoning the Derbyshire Discretionary Fund.

The assessor will need to know how your family is financially struggling and will discuss what money and savings might be available for you.

To meet the criteria you will have to be a resident of Derbyshire and over the age of 16.

The fund is limited and all applicants will be based on need, urgency and risk.

Families which have become vulnerable because of financial hardship will receive household support fund grants directly, according to Derbyshire Council.

The council has asked parents who believe they should’ve received a voucher but haven’t, to check their child’s school officer who will have copies of the pupil’s unique voucher code.

Vouchers were sent to:

• Children who receive benefit-related free school meals
• Children in nurseries and pre-schools who receive funded childcare due to living in a low-income household
• Care leavers aged up to 21 years old living independently

Other grants are currently available for thousands of households in the county, says Derbyshire Council.

It reports that 23,000 eligible Derbyshire households will be contacted to receive a one-off voucher to help with energy costs.

The energy support grant was funded by the Department for Work and Pensions.

Residents can claim up to £140 as long as:

• They live with a pensioner (aged over 66) who is entitled to council tax support
• They receive home care support and are on a low-income

The grant will be rolled out in phases between December 2023 and February 2024.

To claim the payment, those who receive the voucher can visit any Post Office branch, before the expiry date shown on the letter.

Make sure to bring:

• Two official letters which include name and address, such as letters from the bank
• Valid UK or EU driving licence
• Valid passport

Funds have been allocated to District and borough councils to help tackle homelessness, council tax, rent and temporary housing, according to Derbyshire Council.

Contact your local district or borough council to see what grants you are eligible for.