Content

RESOLVED:
Cabinet;

1)                
Noted that the Crisis & Resilience Fund distribution and
delivery is to be managed locally.

2)                
Approved the proposed Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) local
delivery model as set out in Section 6 of this report.

3)                
Noted the requirement to deliver all four mandatory strands
(Crisis Payments, Housing Payments, Resilience Services, Community
Coordination) in accordance with national guidance.

4)                
Delegated authority to the Head of Community Safety,
Engagement and Resettlement, in consultation with the Director of
Communities and Opportunities, to make operational decisions
required for delivery.

5)                
Agreed that the Communities Team, Public Health and Revenues
& Benefits will maintain collaboration to provide operational
and strategic oversight, ensuring alignment with the Anti-Poverty
Strategy and local priorities.

6)                
Agreed that any CRF funds which remain unassigned,
uncommitted, or not forecast for distribution by the end of the
applicable funding period will be reallocated in accordance with
Department for Work and Pensions guidance, with decisions informed
by evidence, best practice, and the successful approaches
demonstrated through HSF.
 
REASONS
RESOLVED:
 

1.    
The national Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) replaces the
Household Support Fund and Discretionary Housing Payments schemes
from April 2026. The recommendations ensure that West
Northamptonshire is fully prepared to deliver CRF in line with
national expectations while maximising local impact. CRF is the
only dedicated multi-year fund for crisis and resilience, and the
Council must adopt a delivery model that is both compliant and
effective.

2.    
Under the terms of the Fund, WNC are required to submit a 3
year delivery plan to Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)
outlining the rationale and expected outcomes of the proposed CRF
delivery model by July 2026.
 
ALTERNATIVE
OPTIONS: None