Middlesbrough families meeting free school meals criteria can apply for £70 per child vouchers through the DWP Household Support Fund
Woman counting UK pound banknotes(Image: Victor Golmer via Getty Images)
Families with children in certain households are in line to receive £70 Cost of Living payments “per child”. In Middlesbrough, thanks to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) Household Support Fund, families with youngsters who qualify for free school meals will get a voucher for each child.
The North East local authority explained: “We sent vouchers automatically, based on schools’ records, on 1 December 2025.” Parents can apply online if their child gets income-related free school meals and is under five, or if another youngster in the household is eligible for free school meals OR goes to a school outside Middlesbrough but lives in the town.
You’re also able to apply if your child doesn’t qualify for income-related free school meals, but your household gets one of these benefits: Council Tax Reduction, Income-based Employment and Support Allowance, Housing Benefit, Income Support, Pension Credit or Universal Credit, reports Yorkshire Live.
Each child will receive a voucher worth £70. Applications could take up to 21 working days to process.
The council warned: “Please do not call us during that time, as it slows down how quickly we can look at applications.” Officials added: “We know people are struggling right now. If you’re not eligible for help from the Household Support Fund, you might be able to get other help.
“You can find out more in the cost of living section. We’re working with partners including Together Middlesbrough, food banks, and Middlesbrough Environment City, and helping them to cope with increased levels of demand. The government has lots of support available for people who are struggling. You can find out more on the government’s cost of living hub.”
The programme runs from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026. The council is releasing the funding in phases to guarantee it reaches those who need it most.
To be eligible for the Household Support Fund, you must live at a property in Middlesbrough and be liable for the Council Tax, rent, or mortgage payments for that address.
Join Teesside Live’s WhatsApp community for top stories and breaking news sent directly to your phone
Teesside Live is now on WhatsApp and we want you to join our community.
Through the app, we’ll send you the latest breaking news, top stories, exclusives and much more straight to your phone.
To join our community group, you need to already have WhatsApp. All you need to do is click this link and select ‘Join Community’.
No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Teesside Live team.
We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like.
To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose ‘Exit group’.
If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Click here to join our WhatsApp community.