New £200 Payments Available Under Crisis and Resilience Fund
Households will be able to apply for new cost-of-living payments worth up to £200 if Andy Burnham becomes Prime Minister. The former Greater Manchester Mayor is expected to lead the next government, which will oversee the newly launched Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF). This fund replaces the previous Household Support Fund (HSF) and allows people to come forward and apply for hardship payments if they are struggling to pay for essentials.
How to Apply for the Payments
Cash grants could be worth £200 in Birmingham and potentially more in other areas. Households can apply for payments through their local councils and should search for "Crisis and Resilience Fund" for further details. Anyone can apply, and people do not need to be claiming benefits. However, those in most urgent need, such as parents with young children, are likely to be prioritised.
Support is aimed at those struggling to buy food and pay for gas and electricity, though all requests for help will be considered. The new fund will operate under the expected Burnham Government over the coming years.
Transition from Household Support Fund
Birmingham City Council previously handed out £200 grants under the HSF. The Birmingham Voluntary Service Council, which handles requests on behalf of the city council, said 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."
"If you or anyone in your household have received an HSF payment within the past 12 months, you will not be eligible, and your enquiry form will be rejected. 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."
Waiting List and Application Process
"If you have submitted a successful enquiry since the current scheme opened from May 1, 2026, you have been added to our waiting list and a member of the team in your local area will reach out to you using the contact details provided. Please be patient as we have many applicants," the council added.
