Rachel Reeves has confirmed that summer cost-of-living payments of up to £200 are available through the newly launched Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF), which replaces the former Household Support Fund (HSF). The payments are designed to help households struggling to afford daily essentials such as food, gas, and electricity.
Who Can Apply?
Anyone can apply for the emergency payments, regardless of whether they are currently claiming benefits. However, those in the most urgent need will be prioritised, including parents with young children. Applications are assessed on their individual merit, so it is worth checking eligibility.
Under the previous HSF scheme, Birmingham City Council distributed £200 grants to eligible households. The CRF now continues this support, with the same application process. The Birmingham Voluntary Service Council, which handles requests on behalf of the city council, confirmed in an update: "The Household Support Fund has now transitioned into the Crisis Resilience Fund. The enquiry and application process will remain the same as HSF."
Key Eligibility Criteria
There are important restrictions to note. If you or anyone in your household has received an HSF payment within the past 12 months, you will not be eligible, and your enquiry form will be rejected. However, if you are not currently receiving any support services, including Universal Credit, you may still be eligible for the Crisis Resilience Fund.
For those who have already submitted a successful enquiry since the current scheme opened on May 1, 2026, they have been added to a waiting list. A member of the local team will reach out using the contact details provided. The council has asked applicants to be patient due to the high volume of applications.
Context and Background
Rachel Reeves is set to leave her role as Chancellor in the coming weeks following the resignation of Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The CRF is one of her final initiatives aimed at supporting vulnerable households during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
According to the Birmingham Voluntary Service Council, the fund is designed to help those most in need of assistance with food and energy costs. The transition from HSF to CRF ensures continued support for struggling families, with the same enquiry and application process remaining in place.
