We recently brought together colleagues from local authorities, housing associations and charities across the country for an FFBS roundtable on the new Crisis and Resilience Funding (CRF). Thank you to everyone who took the time to join the discussion and share such open, thoughtful insight.
The session highlighted just how significant the shift from Household Support Fund (HSF) to CRF feels for many organisations. While the challenges are real, there was also a strong sense of opportunity.
From crisis response to long-term resilience
A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the need to move away from short-term crisis responses and towards solutions that genuinely reduce repeat demand. Attendees described HSF as a necessary but temporary fix. CRF, by contrast, is seen as a chance to tackle the underlying drivers of financial hardship and help residents build longer-term resilience.
Cash-first (but not cash only)
While there is broad support for cash-first approaches, particularly as a way to preserve dignity and flexibility for residents, clients were also clear that cash alone is not the solution. Attendees were asked how they will provide support for those in crisis as part of a survey ahead of the roundtable, and the results showed that clients are considering using vouchers and goods just as much, if not more than, cash payments. FFBS recognises that while vouchers and essential goods sit firmly within the crisis response, they can still play an important role in stabilising a household during a financial shock and reducing the risk of immediate repeated need. It’s clear that hybrid approaches, combining financial support with advice, guidance and follow-ups, are emerging as a preferred model, especially where there is concern about vulnerability or debt.
Partnerships will be key
Most organisations already have income maximisation services and strong local partnerships in place. CRF delivery is expected to build on these foundations, with voluntary and community sector partners playing a vital role in advice, prevention and resilience-building activity.
Alongside this, FFBS is exploring how we can complement existing local provision through optional, scalable support. This includes interactive online guides covering areas such as energy costs, switching and saving online, budgeting and digital inclusion, a benefits calculator available through our website, and an advisory service that could incorporate benefit and grant checks, as well as warm referrals to trusted third parties who can help residents reduce household bills.
Where these services would add value, we would be happy to work with organisations to develop our offering to meet local needs.
Readiness and reality
Confidence around implementation timelines varies widely. Some authorities feel well prepared for early changes, while others highlighted the scale of transformation required and the pressure of deadlines. Funding sufficiency, eligibility decisions and the merging of budgets were all cited as ongoing concerns.
Local authorities are expected to provide a delivery plan by 1 July 2026 for the 2026/27 financial year, subject to annual updates. There was a shared expectation that these plans will evolve over the course of the three-year funding period, reflecting learning, changing demand and the practical realities of delivery.
How FFBS can help
At FFBS, we see CRF as an opportunity to work alongside clients as delivery models evolve. Our focus continues to be supporting the practical delivery of crisis support, and we recognise that goods and vouchers can be just as effective as cash in helping people during a crisis. At the same time, we’re keen to explore how we can contribute to wider resilience-building and would welcome conversations with clients about developing new services that meet local needs.
We’re grateful to everyone who contributed their experiences and challenges on the day. These conversations are invaluable, and we look forward to continuing to work together as CRF develops over the coming years.
If you’d like to discuss any of the themes raised, or how FFBS can support your organisation’s approach to CRF, please reach out to your account manager if you’re a current client. Alternatively, get in touch here to find out more about how FFBS can work with your organisation.
