Local Welfare Assistance (LWA)

The fund does not give out cash payments, but may provide:

• a referral to the local food bank
• help with fuel payments

The fund is discretionary, there is no statutory right to support. We will help applicants who are able to demonstrate that they cannot access any other form of financial help or assistance.

Who can apply?

We may be able to help you if you:

• resident in Luton
• don't have access to enough resources to prevent a serious risk to your own or your family’s health or safety
• are on a low or reduced income or entitled to a qualifying benefit such as:
  • Income Support
  • Universal Credit
  • Income-based Jobseekers allowance
  • Income-related Employment Support allowance
  • Pension Credit
  • Housing Benefit
  • Council Tax reduction
• don't have access to savings that you could use to meet the need

Who can't apply?

We can't help you if:

• you cannot prove you are a resident of Luton
• you have been housed in Luton by another local authority
• you do not provide proof of your circumstances (if requested)
• other resources are available to you

How to apply

Please contact us by calling 0800 456 1673 or 01582 510332.

What happens next?

We'll assess your application to see if you are eligible for assistance.

We may have to contact you for further information, we may also need proof of your circumstances such as bank statements, proof of residency etc. please ensure you provide a contact telephone number and email address.

Applicants are advised that when a decision is made, we will call or email you. Please check your emails regularly. Our telephone number may not display on your phone, ensure you answer all calls or have a messaging facility; we will not make numerous attempts to contact you.

Other sources of help

Search the Luton directory for local services supporting vulnerable adults, families and children, and young people.

If you are in crisis or have an emergency when our phone lines are closed please click on our list of emergency contacts.