From Wednesday 1st April, 2026, all local councils are operating a new scheme called the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF).
Through the CRF, the Government will provide Sefton Council with funds so that we can:
- offer short‑term crisis support to Low-Income Households, which have experienced a financial shock.
This part of the CRF is know as the Crisis Payment scheme.
The Scheme is now open for applications and you can find out more here.
Examples of Financial shock could include, but are not restricted to
-
- a sudden loss of income or reduced hours;
- an unexpected essential bill or cost;
- a delay or change in benefits;
- illness, caring responsibilities or a family emergency;
- urgent housing issues, that increase financial pressure.
- help residents become more financially resilient to help prevent repeat Crisis.
This could include help with:- checking you’re getting the right income and benefits
- budgeting support and financial skills
- debt advice and support to reduce money worries
- help to access employment, training or wider wellbeing support.
- improve Community Co-ordination
- By making local support easier to find and access by improving referral routes between the Council, community groups and local services.