Households across England are being urged to check their eligibility for cost-of-living payments through the Government's Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF), even if they do not claim benefits. The scheme, which is administered by local councils, provides grant funding to help people facing financial hardship.
Who can apply for the Crisis and Resilience Fund?
According to the Government, the CRF provides grant funding to local authorities in England to offer preventative support to communities, as well as assisting people when they face a financial crisis. While those in most urgent need are prioritised, residents should not be put off from applying simply because they are not on benefits.
No one is barred from making an application if they have money worries. What matters is individual circumstances. For instance, a low-income household earning a total of £40,000 could still find it difficult to pay bills and support their children. Similarly, someone living alone earning around £30,000 might also be struggling.
How to apply and what support is available
There is no strict cut-off point for eligibility, so it is worth checking if you are having challenges with bills and other essentials. Details of how to apply and what is available can be found on council websites. Local authorities run their own individual schemes and have been paying out different amounts.
Birmingham City Council previously paid out £200 grants under a similar cost-of-living scheme. The Birmingham Voluntary Service Council, which handles requests on behalf of the city council, said: "Please be aware that if you are not currently in receipt of any support services including Universal Credit – you may still be eligible for the Crisis Resilience Fund."
Impact on households in Birmingham
This means that households in Birmingham earning up to £40,000 could potentially receive a £200 payment if they are struggling financially. The payments are designed to provide immediate relief for essential costs such as energy bills, food, and other necessities.
Residents are encouraged to visit their local council's website to find out more about the application process and the specific support available in their area. The scheme is part of broader efforts to help families cope with the ongoing cost-of-living pressures.
