Cornwall Council launches Crisis and Resilience Fund to aid financial emergencies
The new fund aims to support low-income households and improve financial resilience
Cornwall Council has introduced the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF), aimed at supporting individuals facing sudden financial difficulties and promoting long-term financial stability within the community.
The CRF will replace the Household Support Fund, as Cornwall Council secures £8.25 million for the 2026/27 financial year. It is designed to provide assistance to low-income households experiencing unexpected financial setbacks or loss of income, prevent crises from intensifying, and foster financial resilience through collaborations with council partners.
Residents may apply for Crisis Payments if they are 16 or over, find themselves in urgent situations where immediate assistance is necessary to avert severe health or safety risks, and can demonstrate their financial need. Further eligibility criteria are detailed on Cornwall Council’s Crisis and Resilience Fund web page.
Commenting on the launch, Cllr Adam Paynter, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Resources, expressed satisfaction at the significant governmental grant to help local residents, aiming to offer them a safety net during financial emergencies.
Additionally, Cornwall Council has received £1.5 million in supplemental funding to support individuals reliant on oil facing financial hardship, due to surging heating oil costs. Eligible residents may receive up to £300 towards their heating expenses, provided they qualify for Council Tax Support, are exempt owing to Severe Mental Impairment, or are in crisis due to heating oil costs. Application details are available on the Crisis and Resilience Fund Energy Support Scheme web page.
Acknowledging the Middle Eastern conflict's impact on oil prices, Cllr Paynter welcomed the added funding to rapidly assist those in financial distress from increased heating costs in Cornwall.