New crisis support fund launched

Monday, 13 April 2026 06:00

By Shaun Moore

Residents in Salisbury and across Wiltshire facing financial difficulties are being urged to seek help through a new government support scheme.

The scheme replaced the Household Support Fund on 1 April and is designed to provide both immediate financial help and longer-term support for people experiencing hardship.

Residents facing urgent difficulties are encouraged to contact the council’s Wiltshire Wellbeing Hub as the first point of support.

Trained staff can offer advice, assess whether financial help is appropriate and connect people with other services.

The council will receive £13.4 million through the fund over the next three years.

This includes £4.4 million for 2026/27, another £4.4 million the following year and £4.6 million in 2028/29.

An additional £783,725 has also been allocated to support low-income households that rely on oil heating.

Wiltshire Council says the funding will help expand services that support residents during crises and help households stabilise their finances.

Councillor Mel Jacob, cabinet member for communities, said the council wants residents to know support is available and encouraged anyone struggling to get in touch.

Residents who need urgent assistance can contact the Wiltshire Wellbeing Hub by phone or email during weekday opening hours.

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