New crisis and resilience funding

Published: 09 June 2026

A new Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) has been set up to support West Berkshire residents facing financial hardship.

The new government-funded CRF replaces previous support schemes and is delivered by West Berkshire Council (WBC). It is intended to help households facing sudden financial difficulty while strengthening longer-term financial stability across the district.  The fund can help with essential costs such as emergency food, household furniture and appliances, rent and energy bills and support will be tailored to individual circumstances.

WBC is working closely with trusted local partners, including West Berkshire Foodbank, Citizens Advice West Berkshire and other voluntary organisations, and funding will also help expand services which support residents to maximise income, manage debt and access benefits advice.

As well as immediate crisis support, the CRF places strong emphasis on building long-term resilience, including helping residents develop their financial skills to reduce the risk of needing emergency assistance in the future.

The Holiday Activities and Food programme will continue to offer support children and families in school holidays.

Residents who are struggling financially can find more information on WBC's web site, or by e-mailing crf@westberks.gov.uk or calling 01635 519194.