England4 schemes
Sunderland City Council: benefits and support
Sunderland’s local welfare assistance is the Community Support Scheme (CSS), running alongside HSF.
276k residents · Metropolitan district · Council benefits hub
Last updated (2026-04-21)
Schemes
Household Support Fund
Year-roundHousehold Support Fund
Sunderland residents on a low income and facing hardship with essential bills. Applications via the council website; direct awards and food vouchers.
Verified 2026-04-21
Discretionary Housing Payment
Year-roundDiscretionary Housing Payment
UC or HB claimants with a rent shortfall.
Verified 2026-04-21
Council Tax Reduction
Year-roundCouncil Tax Reduction
Working-age scheme: tapered reduction up to 100%. Pensioners national scheme.
Verified 2026-04-21
Community Support Scheme
By referral onlyLocal welfare assistance
One-off help for Sunderland residents in crisis, or who need support to stay in stable accommodation. Typically via referral.
Verified 2026-04-21