What Is Local Welfare Assistance?

Local welfare assistance is a broad term for emergency or crisis support provided through councils.

The scheme may have a different name where you live, and the help available can vary considerably.

What can local welfare support help with?

Depending on the scheme, support may be available for food, energy, essential household items, emergency living costs or other immediate needs.

Some schemes provide money, vouchers or direct support. Others may connect you with local services.

What changed in England in 2026?

From April 2026, the Crisis and Resilience Fund provides English local authorities with funding for crisis support, housing payments and work intended to improve financial resilience.

The government requires councils to operate a Crisis Payment scheme, but councils still make local decisions about delivery and eligibility.

Is it the same as a Housing Payment?

No. In England, Crisis Payments and Housing Payments are separate strands of the Crisis and Resilience Fund.

Housing Payments focus on eligible housing costs. Crisis Payments are intended for people facing financial crisis more generally.

How do I find the right scheme?

Look on your council website for terms such as Crisis Payment, financial hardship, welfare assistance, emergency support or Crisis and Resilience Fund.

If you cannot find the information, contact the council and ask specifically what crisis financial support is currently available.

What if I am refused?

Ask whether the council has a review process and whether another local scheme or organisation may help.

A refusal from one scheme does not necessarily mean you have no other options. Benefits, charitable grants, energy support and free debt advice may address different parts of the problem.

7.38: What Emergency Financial Help Might My Council Provide?

7.31: What Help Can I Get With My Rent?

7.10: How Can I Check Whether I’m Missing Out on Benefits?

Important information

This guide provides general information and is not intended to provide financial, benefits, debt, housing or legal advice. Individual circumstances can be different. Check current information from official sources and seek advice from an appropriately qualified or authorised adviser before making important financial decisions.