Crisis and Resilience Fund
Councils are currently implementing and reviewing their Crisis and Resilience Funds, with Lewisham adopting a 'cash-first' approach for direct resident support.
Lewisham Council launched its Crisis and Resilience Fund in September 2026, adopting a 'cash-first' approach to provide direct payments to residents facing hardship, as stated by the Deputy Mayor. Kensington and Chelsea's Leadership Team approved the delivery plan for its fund in September 2026. Westminster's Value for Money and Innovation Policy and Scrutiny Committee was scheduled to review a Cabinet Member decision on the transition to the fund in September 2026.
Councils are establishing the Crisis and Resilience Fund to replace the central government's Household Support Fund, often with multi-year commitments. Islington Council launched its three-year fund in March 2026, aiming to tackle poverty. Bexley Council's fund, launched in April 2026, combines discretionary housing payments and the household support fund, while Enfield Council's £7.4 million annual fund, approved in March 2026, prioritises low-income households.
The fund aims to provide immediate support and build longer-term financial resilience for residents. Merton Council's Cabinet received an update on its Crisis and Resilience Fund in July 2026. The fund is typically a grant from the Department for Work and Pensions to local authorities, replacing previous schemes.
Key facts
- Lewisham Council launched its Crisis and Resilience Fund in September 2026, providing direct cash payments to residents. Source
- Islington Council launched a three-year Crisis and Resilience Fund in March 2026, replacing the Household Support Fund. Source
- Enfield Council's Cabinet approved the distribution of a £7.4 million annual Crisis and Resilience Fund in March 2026. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.