From 1st April 2026, a new Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) will be introduced by the Department for Work and Pensions to support people facing financial hardship.
The fund will replace the Household Support Fund, which has been in place since October 2021.
Successor to the Household Support Fund
The Government confirmed the change during the Spending Review in July 2025 and set the new fund to run for three years.
The CRF will focus on providing immediate support to people experiencing sudden financial shocks. It will also aim to help people build longer-term financial stability and reduce dependency on emergency assistance such as food parcels.
Further operational details are expected in January 2026.
Local authorities will deliver the fund and work in partnership with voluntary and community organisations to provide more connected support.
Plans for the Isle of Wight
The Isle of Wight Council is exploring how to use the CRF to support residents across the Island.
The approach will focus on both short-term assistance and long-term resilience, with an emphasis on ensuring residents have the tools and support needed to improve their financial wellbeing.
The council intends to work closely with community partners to create support that has lasting impact.
Residents invited to help shape the approach
Island residents are encouraged to contribute their views through a short survey. The survey is available online.
Printed copies are available from local libraries or can be requested by calling (01983) 823 644.
The deadline for responses is Wednesday 24th December 2025.
