The Government has announced new funding to support people who are in financial crisis. This funding will replace the current Household Support Fund, which will end on 31 March 2026.
The new fund, called the Crisis and Resilience Fund, is intended to help people cope with a sudden, unexpected expense or loss of income, while also helping with longer term financial resilience.
The fund will run from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2029.
Bedford Borough Council has been allocated £2.5 million for the period 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027.
We're currently gathering information to help decide what the scheme will look like. We're aiming for our scheme to start by June 2026, following approval from the Council's Executive.
The Crisis and Resilience Fund is funded by the UK Government.
If you are currently experiencing a crisis and need urgent support please contact the welfare team who are here to help on 01234 718033. You can also see our Local Welfare Provision webpage for more information.
If you rely on an oil heating system and are facing difficulty with the current rising costs then additional support to heat your home is available for eligible customers.
Apply for a Crisis Payment – Heating Oil Support Fund
You may be eligible for a Crisis Payment towards the cost of heating oil if you meet all the following eligibility criteria:
- You are a resident of Bedford Borough. Go to GOV.UK Find your local Council if you are unsure which Council area your address is in.
- Heating oil is your main source of heating your home.
- You have 150 litres or less of heating oil remaining (Priority will be given to households with under 100 litres).
- You are at immediate risk of being unable to heat your home or have access to hot water.
- You are either:
- in receipt of Universal Credit or Pension Credit, or
- not receiving any benefits but can clearly demonstrate that you cannot afford the minimum delivery amount required by oil suppliers.
- You have limited access to savings or other financial resources.
Supporting evidence required
To support your application, please provide the following at point of application:
- proof of oil heating
- proof of current oil levels
- financial information
For example: a recent oil invoice, bank statement showing a payment to an oil supplier, Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), or tenancy agreement. We will also cross-check against our internal records of oil-heated properties.
A dated photo clearly showing your tank gauge and the current percentage or level of oil remaining. Please also state the size/capacity of your tank.
Recent bank statements (last month), proof of income, and details of any savings or other assets.
To complete the form we will ask you for your Council Tax account number, you can find this on your most recent Council Tax bill. Please have this to hand before you begin completing the form.
Important information about the fund
- Awards are a contribution towards the cost of oil and are fixed at a maximum of £350. This is calculated on the difference in the price of oil prior to the recent conflict in the Middle East.
- This support is for short-term emergencies only.
By submitting the form you agree that you have read and understood how we process your personal data.
