Support from the government
Most benefit is funded by the government, and you should apply for it on gov.uk:
Social Fund benefits
The Social Fund is a government scheme to help people on a low income meet their expenses:
- Budgeting Loans
- Cold Weather Payments
- Funeral Payments
- Short Term Benefit Advances
- Sure Start Maternity Grant
For advice on benefits and help with applying, visit our Advice with money, benefits and debt page.
Support from your council
Camden council provides 2 main types of regular benefit to residents:
Housing benefit
If you’re a Camden resident and are responsible for paying rent, claiming benefits, or you’re on a low income, you may be entitled to housing benefit.
Council tax support
If you’re a Camden resident and are claiming Universal Credit, and if you’re employed on a low income or not receiving any income, you may be entitled to council tax support.
There is also a one-off emergency payment that the council can give of about 60% of your standard benefit amount. Find out more about the Local Welfare Assistance Scheme
Support in schools
Your child may be able to get free school meals and travel. Find out if they are eligible for:
Help with heating and household bills
Gov.uk: heating and housing benefits
Citizens Advice: grants and benefits for energy bills
Citizens Advice: help with paying your water bill
Reduce your home energy bills with Green Camden
Food banks
Food banks and community organisations provide support to people who are struggling to access food in Camden.
Find your nearest local food bank
You can also donate to local food banks and community organisations through Find Food: Donate to a food bank.
Food bank opening times
Camden food bank
Tuesday 11.30am – 3.30pm
Friday 11.30am – 3.30pm
Euston food bank
Tuesday 12 noon - 4pm
Thursday 5.30pm - 7pm
Saturday 11am - 12.30pm
Sunday 2pm - 3.30pm
Chalk Farm food bank
Thursday 10.30am-12pm
Maiden Lane community centre food bank
Wednesday 2pm – 4pm
Saturday 1.30pm – 3.30pm
Charitable grants
Search for charitable grants which are available to help people in financial need: