If you live in Wales, much of the help available with the cost of living is
run by the Welsh Government and your local council. Some of these schemes are
specific to Wales and are not offered elsewhere in the UK, so it is worth
knowing what you can access here. This page explains the main sources of local
and national support in Wales and how to apply.

The Discretionary Assistance Fund

The Discretionary Assistance Fund (DAF) is run by the Welsh Government and
provides grants that do not have to be repaid. There are two types:

  • Emergency Assistance Payments – to help with
    essential costs such as food, gas, electricity, clothing or emergency travel
    when you are facing a crisis you cannot meet from your own resources.
  • Individual Assistance Payments – to help you live
    independently, for example white goods or furniture when setting up or
    staying in your home, often after leaving care, hospital, supported living
    or the criminal justice system.

You apply directly to the DAF rather than through your council. Emergency
Assistance Payments are usually dealt with quickly, and you can be helped more
than once depending on your circumstances.

Council Tax Reduction

If you are on a low income or claim certain benefits, the Council Tax
Reduction Scheme can cut your bill – in some cases to nothing. The
scheme applies across Wales, and you may also qualify for discounts or
exemptions such as the single person discount or a reduction where someone is
a full-time student or severely mentally impaired. Apply through your local
council.

Warm Homes and free energy advice

Nest, part of the Welsh Government’s Warm Homes Programme, offers free,
impartial energy advice to any household in Wales – on bills, tariffs
and staying warm – and free home energy improvements to eligible
homeowners and private tenants. Even if you do not qualify for improvements,
the advice line is open to everyone.

Getting advice

Because eligibility depends on your situation and rules change, it helps to
get a benefits check. Citizens Advice offers free, confidential support across
Wales, and your council may fund local welfare-rights advice. For wider
guidance, see our help for households hub
and our overview of grants and support.