Crisis payments now available for Portsmouth residents
The new fund focuses on financial shocks and unexpected costs
Portsmouth has launched a new payment scheme, focusing on helping households affected by sudden financial shocks or unexpected costs.
The new Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) replaced the Household Support Fund on 1 April. It is designed not only to respond when people are in crisis, but also help prevent problems in the future.
A new crisis payment scheme is now open for applications. It is aimed at households who have had an unexpected financial shock, such as losing income suddenly or facing an emergency cost.
Help may be given as cash payments, vouchers, or essential items, depending on what the household needs.
Applicants must meet eligibility rules and show they are in financial crisis. The scheme is expected to run until March 2029.
Councillor Steve Pitt, leader of the council said: “Our commitment to helping people in the greatest hardship in the city is unwavering. This new way of supporting people has been rolled out nationally, and we are determined to make it a success here and continue to offer people the support they need.
“Any change is uncertain, and I strongly advise people in difficulty to contact our staff, who are here to help.”
Help to apply
People are encouraged to apply online, as this is the quickest way. But support is available for anyone who needs help with their application by calling the crisis and resilience fund helpline on 023 9268 8010.
The council’s cost of living hub has information on help with food, energy, travel costs, and support with money, debt, housing, jobs, and wellbeing. A cost of living helpline is also open on weekdays on 023 9284 1047.
Housing payments
The CRF also includes housing payments (previously known as Discretionary Housing Payments). These provide short-term help with housing costs in certain situations.
More information is available on the council’s housing payment page.
Grants for organisations
The fund also includes grant funding for organisations that support residents with financial resilience or help people access support more easily.
Grants range from £500 to £50,000. Applications close on 31 May 2026.
Full details are included on the council’s CRF webpage: www.portsmouth.gov.uk/crf