Summary
The UK government will start a new fund called the Crisis and Resilience Fund in April to help people with low incomes in England. It aims to provide an annual £1 billion over three years to offer emergency cash for unexpected financial difficulties. People can get this cash through their local councils, regardless of whether they receive other benefits.
Key Facts
- The Crisis and Resilience Fund starts in April and runs for three years.
- The fund provides £1 billion each year to help people on low incomes in England.
- Councils can give emergency cash to people facing unexpected financial issues, such as a job loss or a sudden bill.
- This fund replaces the temporary Household Support Fund that is ending in March.
- Local councils can divide the fund for crisis payments, housing assistance, and resilience services.
- The new fund aims to reduce reliance on food banks by offering direct cash support.
- England's local councils will need to publish how they will use the funds by April 1.
- Funding will also be allotted to Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, with local authorities deciding how to use it.
