Households across the UK may be able to access new cost-of-living payments worth up to £200 under a government-backed scheme replacing previous support programmes, with funding now delivered through local councils under the newly introduced Crisis and Resilience Fund.
Crisis And Resilience Fund Replaces Previous Support
The Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) has replaced the Household Support Fund, with money now allocated directly to local authorities rather than distributed through a single national scheme.
Councils are responsible for deciding how the funding is used locally, including eligibility criteria, application processes and payment levels. The aim is to provide short-term support for households facing financial pressure, particularly those struggling to cover essential day-to-day costs.
While the structure has changed, the purpose remains similar to previous schemes, focusing on helping residents manage rising living costs during periods of economic strain.
Who May Be Eligible For Payments
Applications are open to a wide range of households and are not limited to people receiving benefits. In some cases, households not currently on Universal Credit or other forms of financial support may still be eligible depending on their circumstances.
Priority is generally given to households considered to be in urgent need. This can include families with children, low-income households, and individuals struggling to afford essentials such as food, heating and electricity.
Each local authority assesses applications individually, meaning eligibility rules and outcomes can vary significantly depending on where applicants live.
Payment Amounts And Local Examples
Payment levels under the scheme are set locally, but in some areas previous support programmes have provided grants of around £200 per household. For example, Birmingham City Council previously issued £200 payments under the former Household Support Fund before transitioning to the new system.
Under the Crisis and Resilience Fund, similar levels of support may still be available, although there is no fixed national payment amount. Councils have discretion over both the value and frequency of payments.
How To Apply For Support
Applications are typically made through local council websites or through partner organisations working on behalf of councils. The process generally involves submitting details about household income, financial circumstances and current hardship.
Some restrictions apply. In certain cases, households that have received support within the past 12 months may not be eligible to apply again during the current funding period. Where demand is high, councils may place applicants on waiting lists, with priority given to cases assessed as most urgent.
Wider Cost-Of-Living Support Context
The Crisis and Resilience Fund forms part of broader efforts to provide targeted financial assistance during ongoing cost-of-living pressures. While payments are not guaranteed for all applicants, the scheme is intended to direct support to those most in need at a local level.
Households are being encouraged to check with their local council for full details, as eligibility rules, payment levels and application procedures differ across the UK.
