A new national funding scheme will provide emergency cash to people on low incomes across England. The Crisis and Resilience Fund, launching in April, will offer £1 billion a year for the next three years.
People will be able to apply through their local council, whether or not they receive benefits. Councils can give money to anyone facing a sudden financial shock, such as a broken boiler, job loss, or other unexpected costs that could push them into crisis.
The fund replaces the temporary Household Support Fund, which had been extended several times since 2021 but was due to end in March. And it will also replace the Discretionary Housing Payment schemes run by Local Authorities.
Guidance from the Department for Work and Pensions states that the money can be used for:
Payments could support people experiencing redundancy, fleeing an abusive relationship, or struggling with an unexpected bill. Councils can decide how to divide their funding across these areas.
If you would like to hear more about this email the Money Matters team at Great Places via moneymatters@greatplaces.org.uk.
