The Crisis and Resilience Fund offers short term assistance to residents who need immediate support due to an unexpected event or urgent circumstance. Applications for this Government funded scheme are being accepted from Monday 13 April, with the online application process being live at that point. The guidance for this government-funded scheme is set by Central Government and not the council.
Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF)
The Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) helps borough residents on a low income when something unexpected makes it hard to manage financially. The Fund can provide short‑term support to help with essential needs or housing costs, and may also connect you to other services to help you get back on track.
The guidance for this government-funded scheme is set by Central Government and not the council.
Support could include a housing payment, with the Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP) now replaced by the CRF.
Support is discretionary, with each application looked at individually to assess eligibility, based on circumstances, the information provided, and available funding.
Applicants will need to share details such as proof of income, along with their tenancy agreement if applying for a housing payment, with this required documentation able to be uploaded as part of the application process or separately if needed.
What help is available?
- Crisis Payments
Short‑term help if you are facing an immediate financial crisis and are at risk of going without essentials such as food, heating or basic household items. We may arrange a home visit to verify the crisis information provided, which will help assess need and what available support would be best.
- Housing Payments
Short‑term help with housing costs, such as a rent shortfall, arrears, rent in advance, deposits, or emergency housing costs. where you cannot afford these from income or benefits alone and there is a risk of arrears or homelessness. Applicants applying for housing support must be in receipt of Housing Benefit or the housing costs element of Universal Credit.
Who can apply?
You do not have to be on benefits to apply. You may be eligible if you:
- are experiencing a financial crisis or housing difficulty that you cannot manage on your own
- live in the London Borough of Bromley, or are placed in temporary accommodation outside the borough by Bromley Council
- are on a low income
- are aged 16 or over
You will need to apply and provide evidence to help us understand your situation.
Some households may be given additional consideration, for example where there are children, health conditions, risk of homelessness, or domestic abuse. This does not guarantee an award.
How decisions are made
- Every application is assessed case by case
- Meeting the criteria does not guarantee an award
- We look at your income, essential outgoings, savings, and what has caused the crisis or housing issue
- Awards may be full or partial, depending on need
- Support may be given as a bank transfer, voucher, or essential goods, depending on what is most appropriate
- Where helpful, we may also offer advice or referrals alongside a payment
We aim to prioritise urgent cases and make decisions as quickly as possible once we have all the information we need.
How to apply
Applications are made online.
If you cannot apply online or need help:
- someone else (such as a family member, support worker or organisation) can apply on your behalf, with your consent
- we can support you over the phone
Evidence you may need
We usually ask for:
- recent bank statements
- proof of income (such as payslips or benefit letters)
- documents related to the crisis or housing issue (for example rent details or bills)
Please send copies only. Do not send original documents.
If you cannot provide evidence straight away, we will explain what is needed and give you time to send it.
See also the frequently asked questions for additional guidance.