The UK Government has announced new spring cost-of-living payments to assist struggling households. Starting in May, grants worth hundreds of pounds will be available through local councils, targeting those in urgent need of emergency financial support.
Who Can Apply?
Households do not need to be claiming benefits to apply. However, local authorities will prioritise individuals deemed to be in urgent financial need, including parents struggling to afford food, gas, and electricity.
How to Access the Funds
Residents should check their local council’s website for application details. The new scheme, called the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF), replaces the outgoing Household Support Fund (HSF). Under the previous HSF, Birmingham City Council provided £200 grants to qualifying households.
The Government has instructed councils to adopt a cash-first approach, meaning cash payments will be the default support method. However, authorities retain flexibility to offer alternative support based on individual needs.
Other forms of financial assistance may also be available. For the latest updates, residents are encouraged to monitor their council’s website and sign up for local news alerts.
