People across Devon who are struggling with an unexpected financial crisis are being reminded that help is available through the Crisis & Resilience Fund, a Government-funded scheme designed to support low-income households facing sudden financial difficulties.
The fund, which replaced the Household Support Fund in April 2026, is available across Devon through local district and city councils, as well as Citizens Advice Devon. It provides targeted assistance to people who have experienced a sudden loss of income or are struggling to meet the cost of essential household expenses.
Support can be provided for everyday necessities including food, energy bills, water charges, housing costs and heating oil. The scheme also aims to improve long-term financial resilience by connecting people with advice and support services that can help prevent future financial hardship.
Examples of situations where people may qualify for assistance include:
* A sudden loss of income due to illness, redundancy or changes in personal circumstances.
* Unexpected essential household bills or emergency expenses.
* Households that rely on heating oil and are struggling with rising fuel costs.
* One-off financial emergencies that place individuals or families at risk of hardship.
Importantly, applicants do not have to be receiving benefits to qualify, and any payments made through the fund will not affect existing benefit entitlement.
Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs, said: “Many people can find themselves facing financial difficulties through no fault of their own. A sudden drop in income, an unexpected bill or rising household costs can quickly put pressure on family finances.
“The Crisis & Resilience Fund is there to provide support when people need it most, helping them deal with immediate difficulties while also connecting them with advice and services that can improve their longer-term financial wellbeing.
“This is particularly important for people living in our rural communities, where costs can often be higher and support can be harder to access. I would encourage anyone who is worried about paying for essentials to find out what help may be available.”
Anyone experiencing a sudden financial crisis is encouraged to contact their local district or city council to find out how to apply through their area’s Crisis & Resilience Fund scheme. Advice and guidance are also available from Citizens Advice Devon.
Further information about the Crisis & Resilience Fund, as well as wider support available to people struggling with the cost of living, can be found on Devon County Council’s website.
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