Struggling households can now apply for £200 cost-of-living payments under a new fund launched as Andy Burnham prepares to enter Number 10 as Prime Minister. The Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) provides emergency payments for essentials like food, gas, and electricity.
Who Can Apply for the Payments?
Anyone can apply for the payments, regardless of whether they are claiming benefits. Local councils administer the fund and have details on their websites. While all requests are considered, priority is given to those most in need, such as parents with young children.
Birmingham City Council previously issued £200 grants under the Household Support Fund (HSF), which has now transitioned into the CRF. The application process remains the same.
How to Apply
Residents should contact their local council for application details. The Birmingham Voluntary Service Council, which handles requests on behalf of the city council, stated: "The Household Support Fund has now transitioned into the Crisis Resilience Fund. The enquiry and application process will remain the same as HSF. 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 of the New Fund
The CRF comes as Burnham takes office, aiming to provide immediate relief to households facing financial hardship. The fund is part of a broader cost-of-living support package, with automatic £200 payments also available for state pensioners born before 1960.
