New fund launched to help West Lancashire residents through financial hardship
West Lancashire Borough Council has launched a new government-funded scheme to provide support for residents facing financial hardship and help them build long-term financial resilience. The Council will directly allocate monies to those most in need.
The Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) has been introduced to provide timely and effective support for residents experiencing a sudden financial shock that puts them at risk of further serious difficulties. Alongside immediate assistance, the fund will help households strengthen their financial resilience and reduce the need for emergency support in the future. It will also support initiatives that help households become more financially resilient through advice, guidance and community-based support services.
Eligible residents will be able to access a range of support through the fund including:
- Crisis support for short-term financial emergencies
- Assistance for households that rely on heating oil
- Food and essential living costs
- Help with utility bills
- Clothing and hygiene products
- Essential household items such as white goods and beds
- Housing-related support
- Access to services delivered alongside local voluntary, community and faith organisations
The new fund brings together support previously provided through the Household Support Fund and Discretionary Housing Payments, creating a more flexible programme that can respond to a wider range of financial challenges while helping residents improve their long-term financial security.
Councillor Neil Furey, Committee Chair for Communities and Environment, said: "The new Crisis and Resilience Fund is designed to support residents through immediate challenges, while also working with our voluntary and community partners to help people build longer-term stability.
"We know that unexpected changes in circumstances can place significant pressure on households. This fund will ensure residents can access practical help when they need it most, while also connecting them with services and support that can improve their financial wellbeing for the future."
The Crisis and Resilience Fund has been introduced by the UK Government through the Department for Work and Pensions and will run from April 2026 until March 2029.
Residents can find out more about eligibility criteria and how to apply by visiting the West Lancashire Borough Council website: www.westlancs.gov.uk
