Cost of Living Support

Our Financial Equality and Wellbeing Team can help you access immediate financial help for housing costs.

They can also provide foodbank vouchers.  

Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) and additional fuel support

From 1 April 2026, the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) will replace the Household Support Fund (HSF) and bring together elements of Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs).

The CRF is a government-funded initiative that will run from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2029. Its 3 main objectives are to:

• provide effective crisis support
• improve financial resilience
• strengthen local support networks

Southend-on-Sea City Council will administer the CRF for residents living in the Essex County Council area.

The Housing Payment part of the fund, which replaces Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs), will continue to be managed by district councils until 31 March 2028.

From 1 April 2026, we will assess CRF Housing Payments using the same approach currently used for Discretionary Housing Payments.

We are continuing to update our website content as further guidance is received from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), including the new housing payment guidance.

On 16 March 2026, the government announced additional targeted financial support to help low-income households in crisis because of rising oil costs.

Southend-on-Sea City Council will also manage this additional fund and is currently inviting applications by email to: elfforessex@southend.gov.uk

Crisis and Resilience Fund - Housing Payment 

CRF Housing payment can provide extra financial help with paying your rent or other large costs linked to housing needs. 

Find out if you are eligible 

Exceptional Hardship Payment (EHP)

If you are experiencing exceptional finanical hardship and recieve Local Council Tax Support, you may be eligible for EHP. 

Find out if you are eligible 

Essex Essential Living Fund

In the event of an emergency, help can be provided through the Essex Essential Living Fund to pay for bills and essential household items.

The Essential Living Fund can help to pay for:

• furniture
• clothing
• fuel connection charges
• daily living expenses such as food and toiletries

You must live in Essex and apply through Southend Borough Council.

Food banks  

Find details of food banks in Colchester as well as a list of referral agents who can provide support in obtaining a food bank voucher.

Find food banks

Household Support Fund

If you are facing hardship, you could get help with your essential household costs through the Household Support Fund.

Find out more about the Household Support Fund