Croydon Council has been allocated up to £19.7m over three years through the government’s new Crisis and Resilience Fund, to help residents facing financial hardship.
The funding replaces the Household Support Fund and Discretionary Housing Payment. It brings together a range of former schemes to provide immediate help to residents facing financial difficulties, whilst also helping residents build longer-term financial resilience.
These include funding for welfare, debt and housing advice through Citizens Advice Croydon, additional support for older residents to help them manage their income through Age UK Croydon and support for care-experienced young people setting up their first home. Specialist programmes will be offered to families living in temporary accommodation to improve wellbeing, financial resilience and healthy eating.
The plan includes a £1.35m fund for one-off emergency payments for residents in crisis, to pay for essentials such as food, fuel and white goods. Information on eligibility and how to apply is on the Council website.
The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme will be extended to provide support to families eligible for free school meals during half term holidays in February, May and October. Families will also be offered support and advice on healthy eating, budgeting and employment, as well as links to local services through Croydon’s Family Hubs.
Residents experiencing financial hardship will be able to access skills and job support as part of The Mayor’s Employment Fund – removing barriers to work and helping people sustain their income over the longer term.
The Council’s year one delivery plan was agreed at Cabinet on Wednesday 23 September. The report can be read in full on the Council website.
The new fund marks a move away from short-term emergency support towards a more preventative approach that tackles the underlying causes of financial hardship. Funding allocations have been agreed up to March 2027, whilst funding allocations for years two and three will be informed by performance, demand and resident need.
“Protecting our most vulnerable residents is a priority for me. Whilst we continue to repair the Council’s finances, we must make sure families facing hardship can get help when they need it, and that we act earlier to prevent problems becoming a crisis.
“This funding will provide practical support, from emergency help with food and fuel to advice on debt and housing. Extending our Holiday Activities and Food programme into half terms will give more children healthy meals and enjoyable activities, whilst helping parents manage the pressure on household budgets.
“We also want to help people build a more secure future. Through the Mayor’s Employment Fund and our local partners, we will help residents develop their skills, overcome barriers to work and sustain their income. Restoring pride in Croydon means creating opportunities for local people and making sure those who need extra support can share in the borough’s future.”
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon
