Crisis and Resilience Fund
The Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) ("the Fund") has been allocated to local authorities across England and funded by the UK Government in accordance with the UK Government Branding Manual, to provide assistance to low-income households experiencing financial hardship and to promote initiatives that strengthen both individual and community financial resilience. The funding is available for the period from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2029 inclusive ("the Fund Period") and includes designated funding for housing-related support.
The Crisis and Resilience Fund provide support to residents facing financial hardship through two types of assistance:
CRF Payments
If you need help with an unexpected financial emergency, you may be eligible for a Crisis Payment.
Crisis Payments can help with essential costs, including:
- Energy and water bills
- Food
- Essential household items
Crisis Payments are administered on behalf of Essex County Council by Southend-on-Sea City Council.
For full details of eligibility and how to apply, please visit Southend-on-Sea City Council - Crisis and Resilience Fund
CRF Housing Payments
Braintree District Council administers the Housing Payment element of the Crisis and Resilience Fund for residents of the district.
Housing Payments provide short-term assistance with housing costs for eligible residents who receive:
- Housing Benefit; or
- The housing element of Universal Credit.
Housing Payments are intended to help residents experiencing financial hardship and struggling to meet their housing costs.
For full eligibility criteria and details of how to apply, please visit CRF Housing Payments
Alternative Formats
Information about the Crisis and Resilience Fund is available in alternative formats on request, including:
- Large print
- Easy Read
- Braille
- Audio format
If you require information in an alternative format, please contact Braintree District Council at:
Email: benefits@braintree.gov.uk
Telephone: 01376 557852
