Crisis support
We're currently receiving a high number of applications
We are working through these applications and aim to contact those who have applied as soon as possible:
- If you apply before 1pm, we aim to contact you the same working day.
- If you apply after 1pm, we aim to contact you the next working day.
Although we aim to meet these timescales, due to the volume of applications there may be a delay.
Please do not contact us to check on the progress of your application unless it has been over 2 working days since you made your application and you have not been contacted.
Types of support:
- Hardship Fund (support during the coronavirus pandemic)
- Test and Trace Support Payment
- Crisis expenses
- Community Care (household goods, furniture or carpets)
Hardship Fund (support during the coronavirus pandemic)
South Tyneside Council has set up a local Hardship Fund, for people experiencing financial hardship as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
The Hardship Fund is for anyone who:
- is suffering financial hardship as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, and
- needs help with daily living expenses such as food, gas and electricity
Applications will be considered on a case by case basis. You will need to provide proof of your circumstances.
How to apply:
- Apply for the Hardship Fund online
- Or, call us for free on 0800 028 4186 (Monday to Thursday, 9am to 5pm and Friday, 9am to 4.30pm)
See more about support during the coronavirus pandemic.
Test and Trace Support Payment
Test and Trace Support is a £500 lump sum payment for people on low incomes, who are unable to work because they have been asked to self-isolate.
Read more about the Test and Trace Support Payment.
Crisis expenses
If you have a financial crisis, you can apply for help with your daily living expenses (for up to seven days). This includes:
- Food
- Gas
- Electricity
Applications will be considered on a case by case basis. You will need to provide proof of your circumstances.
How to apply:
- Apply for crisis expenses online
- Or, call South Tyneside Homes on 0300 123 6633 (Monday to Thursday, 9am to 5pm and Friday, 9am to 4.30pm)
Community Care (household goods, furniture or carpets)
Community Care aims to help vulnerable applicants stay in the community, or move back into the community after time in support or unsettled accommodation.
Applications will be considered on a case by case basis. You will need to provide proof of your circumstances.
Families showing that they are experiencing exceptional pressure can also access this service:
- Apply for Community Care online
- Or, call South Tyneside Homes on 0300 123 6633 (Monday to Thursday, 9am to 5pm and Friday, 9am to 4.30pm)