From 1 April 2026, Colchester City Council’s long‑standing support for residents struggling with housing costs will continue unchanged under a new national name. What was previously known as the Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) will now be delivered as the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) Housing Payment, a Government‑led rebranding that brings all local crisis support under one consistent framework. Importantly for residents, the way the support works, how it is applied for, and the type of help available remain exactly the same.
Colchester City Council is highlighting the availability of Crisis and Resilience Fund Housing Payments, designed to help residents who experience an unexpected change in circumstances that makes meeting housing costs difficult. The fund provides short‑term financial support to prevent residents from falling into rent arrears or facing housing insecurity during periods of financial strain.
The council assesses every application individually, considering a resident’s income, expenditure, rent liability and wider personal circumstances. Applicants may be asked to provide recent bank statements, tenancy details and other relevant evidence to ensure decisions are fair and accurately reflect need. Where awarded, support normally begins from the Monday following the application, with backdating considered where circumstances justify it.
Payments can be made directly to the resident, to their Housing Benefit account, or into a rent account for Colchester Borough Homes tenants, depending on what best supports the applicant’s situation. Residents are also reminded to update the council if their circumstances change, as this may affect any award made.
A recent case involved a resident who experienced a sudden loss of income and risked falling behind on rent. Through a Crisis and Resilience Fund Housing Payment, the council was able to provide immediate short‑term support that stabilised the situation and prevented the risk of homelessness. This reflects the purpose of the fund: to act quickly when households face sudden financial pressure and to maintain housing security during challenging periods.
Cllr Julie Young, Deputy Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Housing, said: “Ensuring residents can remain secure in their homes during sudden financial difficulties is one of our core responsibilities. This rebranding does not change the support available, and we remain fully committed to helping people access the assistance they need without delay.”
As the national transition from DHP to CRF Housing Payments takes effect, we are encouraging residents to look for the new name when seeking support online. Those attempting to apply for a DHP after 1 April will instead find the updated Crisis and Resilience Fund information and application form.
Residents who believe they may qualify for support are encouraged to come forward promptly. The council also offers a clear route for challenging decisions for those who feel their circumstances warrant further review.
Further information, including eligibility criteria, assessment processes and the application form, can be accessed at: