Helping Dudley residents through financial hardship

Dudley Council is working with local organisations and community partners to support residents experiencing financial difficulties, helping people access the advice and support they need.

People and families in Dudley facing an unexpected financial crisis may be able to get help through the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF).

Whether it is because of a sudden change in circumstances, a loss of income, an unexpected bill or emergency expense, the fund is designed to provide support when it is needed most.

The government-funded Crisis and Resilience Fund is part of Dudley Council's wider work to improve financial wellbeing and reduce poverty across the borough. The fund helps residents experiencing a financial shock by providing support with immediate needs while also helping them access advice and services that can improve their longer-term financial resilience.

Support is tailored to individual circumstances and may include help with food, energy costs, essential household items such as furniture or white goods, access to specialist advice services, or, in some cases, vouchers, practical support or financial assistance.

The type of support provided will depend on a person's circumstances and needs.

As well as helping people through an immediate crisis, the fund aims to connect residents with wider support that can help strengthen financial resilience and reduce the risk of future financial difficulties.

Residents may be connected to services offering help with benefits, debt, budgeting, housing, employment, and wellbeing.

Councillor Andrea Goddard, cabinet member for adult social care and public health, said: "No one plans for a financial crisis, and for many people it can be a very stressful and worrying time.

"The Crisis and Resilience Fund provides support for residents facing financial hardship, helping them manage immediate challenges while also connecting them with advice and services that can support them in the future.

"Every person's circumstances are different, so support is tailored to individual needs. By working with local organisations and frontline services, we can help ensure residents receive the support that best meets their needs."

Residents can find out more about the support available and local eligibility arrangements on the Dudley Council website.