Thousands of struggling households could receive up to £1,000 in free help so they can pay rising bills.
The support is available through Brent Council as part of a discretionary support fund.
The council runs its Brent Resident Support Fund (RSF) for residents who are in financial difficulties.
If you’re found to be eligible for help, the maximum total award you could receive is £1,000.
The money can be used to cover things like rent and council tax arrears, white goods, counselling and mental health services, internet access and laptops, energy and water essentials and debts.
You can also apply for funding if you need support with increased household expenditure such as food and utility bills.
Brent Council says it is "unlikely" to award help for those needing to pay parking fines, ULEZ or congestion charges, court and legal fees, home improvements or medical and business expenses.
Ultimately, it will be down to the council to decide who it offers help to.
You can apply if you:
Live in Brent
Are aged 18 and over
Have less than £6,000 savings
Need support with meeting your day to day living expenses including food and utility bills
Are not seeking support to pay for an excluded item
Are willing to comply with any reasonable conditions concerning the payment award, including for example, support from advice agencies
Have not made a RSF application in the last 12 rolling months
You can apply for the funding online on the Brent Council website.
When you apply, you'll need to provide a copy of your most recent bank statements to show your household income.
If you live with a partner, you'll need to show a copy of their bank statements too.
The council says it aims to process applications within eight to ten weeks.
Residents who are at risk of losing their home, or need support as a matter of urgency, should call the council on 020 8937 1800.
Get free debt advice
If you’re really struggling, get free debt advice as soon as possible - don’t ignore the problem.
Speak to one of the following organisations for free debt advice:
- Citizens Advice (0808 223 1133)
- StepChange (0800 138 1111)
- National Debtline (0808 808 4000)
