Portsmouth residents experiencing extreme financial hardship will soon have access to new support.
The Government has replaced its Household Support Fund with a new Crisis and Resilience Fund, which councils will run from 1 April 2026.
The new fund is designed to help residents to reduce hardship, strengthen financial resilience, manage or reduce debt, and benefit from improved access to local advice and support services. Part of the funding will be used to support local support and advice services around the city.
As part of this change, Portsmouth City Council is creating a Crisis Payment scheme to support households dealing with unexpected financial emergencies, such as a sudden loss of income or urgent, unavoidable costs. It’s expected to open in mid to late April.
Alongside the new fund, the council’s cost of living hub and helpline will continue to offer free money advice and support to all residents. Anyone needing help can call 023 9284 1047, Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm (closes at 4.30pm on Fridays).
The council’s Household Support Fund webpages have been updated to reflect the new Crisis and Resilience Fund and include full details. Find out more: Crisis and Resilience Fund – Portsmouth City Council