Page under development 31st March 2026
Crisis and Resilience Fund Housing Payments Policy 2026-27
This outlines the framework for administering Housing Payments under the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) by Wealden District Council.
1.Introduction
- The CRF replaces Discretionary Housing Payments(DHPs) from April 2026.
- Housing Payments aim to address rental shortfalls while supporting crisis resolution, financial resilience and local support services.
2.Funding Structure
- Funding reflects historic DHP levels with a +20% tolerance.
- The Council may supplement funding locally, adhering to Section 31 grant conditions.
2.Legal Basis
- Payments are discretionary under the Discretionary Financial Assistance Regulations 2001.
- Applicants must receive Housing Benefit or Universal Credit housing element and payments cannot exceed eligible housing costs.
4.Delivery Principles
- The policy is person-centred, needs-based, holistic, trauma-informed , and accessible.
- It aims to alleviate poverty, prevent homelessness, support vulnerable groups and assist during crises.
- Applications are treated equally, and the Council collaborates with local agencies for support.
5.Applications
- Applications can be made online, via email, or paper forms, with assistance available for those who need help completing forms.
- Applicants must provide details of income, expenses, assets, and reasons for financial assistance.
6.Eligibility
- Applicants must be entitled to Housing Benefit or Universal Credit housing costs.
- Payments are discretionary, short term and not guaranteed.
- Exclusions include ineligible charges, rent increases for arrears and Council Tax liability.
7. Housing Costs
- Payments cover rent shortfalls due to benefit caps, welfare reforms, rent restrictions, or other housing-related costs like deposits and removal expenses.
- Payments are not awarded for overcharging by landlords, unwillingness to use other resources, or moving to unaffordable housing.
8.Financial Assessment
- The Council assesses income, expenses, savings and circumstances to determine financial need.
- Disability benefits are excluded from income calculations.
- Awards are aligned with CRF outcomes: crisis support, financial resilience and strengthening local support.
9. Backdating
- Payments may be backdated if a valid reason is provided, but only for periods when Housing Benefit or Universal Credit was payable.
10. Change of Circumstances
- Recipients must report changes in circumstances within one month, or awards may be revised, recovered, or terminated.
11. Decision Making
- Applications are reviewed by senior staff within one month, and awards are cash limited.
- Awards are typically for a fixed period (up to 12 months) and can be weekly or one-off payments.
- Decisions are communicated in writing, with reasons provided for approval or denial.
12. Overpayments
- Overpayments are recoverable unless caused by Council error or if the applicant was unaware of the mistake.
13. Fraud
- Fraudulent claims may lead to investigation and criminal proceedings under The Fraud Act 2006.
14. Wraparound Support
- Housing Payments serve as a gateway to services like debt advice, budgeting, employment and energy support.
15. Proactive Targeting
- The Council may use data to identify households at risk and conduct outreach in collaboration with housing providers and advice agencies.
16. Policy Review
- The policy will be reviewed annually or as needed due to legislative or funding changes.
17.The Head of Digital, Revenues and Benefits is authorised to make technical amendments to ensure compliance with government and Council criteria.