Help if you’re struggling with essential costs
From Wednesday 1 April 2026, Central Bedfordshire residents who experience a crisis or sudden financial shock may be able to get help through the Crisis and Resilience Fund. If you’re finding it difficult to pay for essential costs such as food, energy, or housing, you may be able to apply for support.
A financial shock could include:
- an unexpected bill
- a sudden loss of income
- an emergency that affects your household finances
The fund aims to help residents deal with urgent financial difficulties and connect them with other support that may help improve their financial situation.
The Crisis and Resilience Fund is funded by the UK government.
What the fund can pay for
Support may be available for essential needs such as:
- food
- energy or utility costs, including help for low‑income households that use heating oil and face a sudden increase in costs
- essential transport costs
- basic household items, such as furniture
Support is usually provided for short-term urgent situations. The amount you receive will depend on your circumstances and all awards are determined by Central Beds Council.
To get support from the Crisis and Resilience Fund, you must be
- a Central Bedfordshire resident
- a British Citizen
- in a low-income household
- 16 or over
You must be experiencing financial hardship or a financial crisis that affects your ability to meet essential needs.
If you’re16 to 18, you must be living independently to be eligible.
Use this link to apply
You can also call 0300 300 8000