Issue - meetings

The Committee gave consideration to a report presented by the Benefits Manager regarding the Crisis and Resilience Fund 2026-27. It was explained that the report outlined the Council’s approach to the implementation of the Government’s Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF), a new three-year, Government-funded DWP programme. It replaced the Household Support Fund (HSF) and aimed to provide crisis support for low-income households and build financial resilience across the district. Lincolnshire County Council (LCC) had been awarded £9.9m per year for three years and had invited the seven district councils to be involved in the delivery of the fund. West Lindsey had been allocated an amount for 2026-27, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) provided guidance for the spend and Members were asked to approve the recommendation for the local delivery plan.

Members were fully supportive of the proposals, particularly the emphasis on building resilience for users as well as simply assisting in crisis situations. Following a request from the Committee, it was agreed that a progress update report would be provided to the Committee to include usage statistics as well as demonstrable benefits and outcomes.

The suggestion to partner with organisations who were already providing such services as would be required under the fund guidelines was welcomed, with Members acknowledging the work which was already underway.

Having been proposed, seconded, and voted upon, it was

            RESOLVED that

a)    the recommended delivery method for the West Lindsey financial allocation be approved; and

b)    the use of the named provider, by way of procurement exception as detailed in Appendix 1, be approved; and

c)    authority be delegated to the Director of Corporate Services, following consultation with the Chairman of Thriving Council Committee, to make minor changes to the scheme resulting from decisions and / or requirements determined by the governing body or the scheme administrator.

Note:              Councillor P. Howitt-Cowan left the Chamber at 7.45pm