West Devon Borough Council has announced a funding increase to assist residents facing financial pressures. A Crisis and Resilience Fund, which replaced the Household Support Fund in April, is now designed to provide both emergency help and longer-term support. The council said it will establish a dedicated Financial Advice and Support Team in partnership with South Hams District Council to help residents access assistance.
The package includes crisis payments for low-income households, with Devon care leavers identified as a priority group. The aim is to help people build financial resilience, confidence and independence. Councillor Jane Elliott, the council’s hub lead for community wellbeing, said: “We know that for many people, it does not take much for things to become difficult.” The council also said it would explore community energy schemes and work with organisations offering free energy advice.
As part of the funding, £20,000 was allocated to West Devon CVS to help coordinate local support and connect residents with available services. A further £20,590 was awarded to Homemaker Southwest to provide welfare benefits and debt advice for people referred through the scheme. Elliott added that the funding would enable the council to offer help when it is needed most, including emergency support, essential items or affordable options like the heating oil loan scheme. Residents can find information about the fund and the application process on the council’s website.
