We are encouraging residents who are having trouble affording their heating bills to apply for support through the new Crisis and Resilience Fund, which is replacing the Household Support Fund.
The fund is designed to provide swift, practical financial help for residents experiencing hardship, particularly during periods of high energy demand, including to anyone facing financial challenges due to the recent increase in heating oil costs.
The Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) offers assistance to anyone facing unexpected financial pressures and can help cover essential costs such as heating, electricity, and other basic living needs. The fund is accessible, confidential, and available to a wide range of households, including those who may not have sought support before.
Residents can apply online by visiting the council’s website, by contacting the customer service team or local advice and support services for help completing an application. Applicants will be asked to provide details about their circumstances and support needed, along with supporting information, such as rising utility bills or unexpected changes to income.
Support is offered on a case by case basis to ensure that help is tailored to individual needs.
In previous years, the Household Support Fund provided direct payments to residents in specific groups. The new Government approach is ‘person centred’ and requires residents to engage directly with their issues so that more resilient solutions can be found.
Cllr Peter Kilbane, Deputy Leader of the Council and Executive Member for Economy and Culture, said:
No one in York should have to choose between heating and other essentials. The Crisis and Resilience Fund exists to support people who are feeling the strain of rising energy costs, including with heating oil, and I strongly encourage anyone who is struggling to get in touch. Our teams are here to help, and the application process is straightforward, confidential, and designed to get support to residents quickly.”
Alongside the fund, City of York Council provides a range of other support services, including budgeting advice, energy saving guidance, and referrals to local partner organisations offering further assistance. We want to make sure residents are receiving all the ongoing support available to maximise their income and reduce their bills.
Residents can learn more or begin an application by visiting:
www.york.gov.uk/crf