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.