URL: https://democracy.bathnes.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=2434

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Resources

Outcome: Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: Decision on the use of the Council’s allocation of the Crisis and Resilience Fund to support residents from 2026/27 to 2028/29.

Content: The Cabinet Member agrees to approve the allocation of CRF for years 1-3 (2026-2029), including the withdrawal of Free School Meal vouchers after the summer holiday period in 2026.   To approve the establishment of the CRF Crisis Fund, which aims to deliver cash first payments to residents in financial crisis within 48 hours.   To approve distribution of CRF funding to resilience and community support partners and internal council teams.   To delegate authority to the Revenues and Benefits manager, in consultation with the S151 Officer to make operational adjustments within CRF allocations where required. Increase in FSM eligibility makes continuation of blanket funding for vouchers unsustainable.   DWP advice clearly states that blanket provision of vouchers does not align with grant guidance and so if the council were to continue with that approach it would be subject to compliance measures.   DWP grant guidance stipulates that funding must be allocated across four strands of resilience support, Crisis support (including a cash-first offer), community co-ordination and housing payments. Officers considered whether alternative delivery approaches, including the continuation of blanket FSM voucher provision for some or all school holiday periods, could be accommodated within the Crisis and Resilience Fund.   However, it is clear that such approaches would not comply with CRF grant conditions beyond Year 1 and would expose the council to compliance measures, including potential withholding of funding.

Date of Decision: May 11, 2026