The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is encouraging people facing financial hardship to check their local council’s website for cost of living assistance through the Crisis and Resilience Fund. The fund, which launched in April 2026, replaces the Household Support Fund and is administered by local councils across England.
Each council sets its own application procedures, eligibility criteria and support mechanisms to help residents experiencing a sudden drop in income, unexpected costs or difficulties managing on a low income. The DWP posted on X urging those with a “sudden drop in income” to ask their local council about available help.
According to official Government guidance, the fund aims to provide a “safety net for those on low incomes who encounter a financial shock”. It also supports local financial resilience initiatives to help people manage crises over the longer term.
Support typically comes in two forms: crisis payments for urgent needs and awards for broader resilience. Eligibility may include those awaiting their first Universal Credit housing element or housing benefit payment, with funds potentially covering rent, deposits or shortfalls. Those not receiving related benefits may access a Crisis Payment instead.
However, the level of support varies by location, as each council operates its own scheme. Residents can use the Gov.uk Council Finder tool to check specific local rules. Most councils aim to decide on urgent requests within 48 hours, according to Turn2Us.
