DWP Announces End of Household Support Fund, Launch of New Crisis Resilience Fund
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has officially confirmed that the Household Support Fund (HSF) will come to an end this month, with a new cost-of-living payment scheme set to replace it for eligible households across England. The HSF, which has been providing financial assistance since 2021, will conclude on March 31, marking a significant shift in government support strategies.
Transition to Crisis Resilience Fund
In place of the HSF, the government will introduce the Crisis Resilience Fund (CRF), designed to offer more targeted and needs-tested support. This change means that families currently receiving Edenred vouchers through the HSF scheme will see their last vouchers issued in March. The DWP emphasizes that the future scheme must include wraparound support and cannot rely on the current eligibility criteria, aiming to better address ongoing economic challenges.
Local authorities, such as Norfolk Council, have moved to reassure residents about the transition. A spokesperson stated, "Although HSF is coming to an end, there will be ongoing support for families in crisis." They encouraged people to visit the council's cost-of-living webpage for updates on available help and to redeem any unspent vouchers promptly to avoid expiration.
Continued Support and Resources
Norfolk Council highlighted additional resources for families facing difficulties, including Family Hubs services that provide broader support on debt and welfare rights. The Big Norfolk Holiday Fun programme is also continuing, with an Easter programme launching soon, offering further assistance to eligible families.
The council added, "Since 2021, the County Council has been providing vouchers of about £15 per month per child to families with children eligible for free school meals, thanks to HSF funding. These changes are outside the council's control, but we remain committed to supporting families in crisis." This announcement underscores the ongoing efforts to adapt support mechanisms in response to evolving economic needs.
