New fund launched to help households facing financial hardship in West Lindsey

The Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) provides short-term support for low-income households facing a crisis that places immediate pressure on household finances, such as the loss of employment, an unexpected bill or other unforeseen circumstances.

The scheme, which was agreed by West Lindsey District Council’s ‘Thriving Council’ committee, is designed to support residents through immediate financial difficulties while also helping to build longer-term financial resilience.

Applicants must be aged 18 years or over, have a household income of less than £36,000, be responsible for their own household expenses, have had a recent financial shock be able to provide evidence of their circumstance and household finances.

Alongside crisis support, Resilience Services will be provided to applicants to help them build their long-term financial resilience. This includes financial advice and opening doors to advice services to reduce the risk of needing emergency assistance in the future, supporting the council’s commitment to supporting people and communities to thrive.

Coun Owen Bierley, chair of the council’s Thriving Council committee, said: “We know that many households continue to face hardship, and with the winter months approaching, concerns about household finances may increase. This funding allows us to provide essential support to residents at a time when they need it most.”

Any support awarded will be based on an individual’s household circumstances and is given to meet short-term stability. Recipients of crisis payments will be referred to appropriate countywide or financial resilience services.

To find out more and to apply online, visit: https://www.west-lindsey.gov.uk/benefits-support/crisis-resilience-fund