Struggling households are being encouraged to verify their eligibility for financial assistance, such as vouchers and cash aid, in preparation for the upcoming Budget announcement.

A platform called Lightning Reach assists individuals in finding and applying for various support programs, partnering with more than 2,500 organizations. On average, users of Lightning Reach receive around £750 in assistance. Since its launch in 2021, the platform has linked over 200,000 people to over £20 million in financial aid, inclusive of grants from councils and charities.

Among the partners accessible through the Lightning Reach platform are the British Gas Energy Trust, TSB, and Lambeth Council. To determine eligibility, individuals can utilize the Lightning Reach application portal available on their website.

Ren Yi Hooi, the Founder CEO of Lightning Reach, emphasized the increasing need for swift and cohesive support as the Budget is anticipated to introduce new tax hikes, further straining household finances.

If concerned about keeping up with expenses, it is advisable to promptly contact service providers to explore potential assistance options. Providers may assess if one is on the most cost-effective plan or offer temporary payment breaks to alleviate financial burdens.

Additionally, reaching out to the local council to inquire about eligibility for the Household Support Fund is recommended. This fund, distributed by councils to low-income households, offers assistance with various bills, with some councils providing vouchers and others offering direct cash aid based on individual circumstances.

For instance, City of York Council recently announced one-off £100 payments from the Household Support Fund this season, directly deposited into recipients’ bank accounts without the need for repayment. Eligibility typically extends to those already receiving council tax support.

Ensuring access to vital support is crucial as the cost of living crisis deepens, with household energy debt reaching a record high of £4.4 billion. Lightning Reach has successfully facilitated a total of £20 million in support, including £7.5 million in direct energy aid, benefiting numerous households in need. Despite these efforts, significant amounts of available aid remain unclaimed due to the complex and fragmented nature of the system.