Community organisations on the Isle of Wight are being invited to apply for funding to help tackle rising financial pressures, as a new scheme opens to support residents in crisis.
The Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) is a government-funded scheme administered by the Isle of Wight Council and is offering grants to local groups working with people experiencing hardship.
Council officers say they are seeking organisations that can provide support with finances, food and utilities as well as mental wellbeing and employment to strengthen the authority’s Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) services with the aim of ensuring more residents can get help earlier, manage their finances and avoid falling into repeated crisis.
Councillor James Whelan, chair of the council’s adult social care, public health and housing needs committee, said expanding local advice services would play a vital role in supporting residents.
James said:
“We know many Island residents are facing real financial challenges, and access to good quality advice can make all the difference.
“This funding is an opportunity for organisations to expand the support they offer, particularly around debt advice and money management, so people can get help earlier and build longer-term financial stability.”
The fund is open to charities, voluntary and community groups, social enterprises, and town, parish and community councils, as well as education providers. Previous experience of handling government grants is not required.
Projects supported by the scheme could include helping people reduce debt, improve financial confidence, access benefits, or get support with essential costs such as heating and food.
Laura Hales, commissioning and projects lead officer, said the programme is designed to be as accessible as possible.
She said:
“We want to work with organisations, not put barriers in their way. If you already support residents or have an idea that could make a difference, we want to hear from you.
“There is a real opportunity here to boost the advice and guidance available to Islanders, particularly around managing money and dealing with debt.”
Applications will be reviewed monthly, with funding available for projects running for up to three years – from April 2026 to March 2029.
Groups are encouraged to speak to the council’s CRF team before applying to discuss their ideas and how they could fit into wider support available on the Island.
The council has stressed that the scheme is intended to complement existing services, not duplicate them, and is part of a wider effort to build a more connected and resilient support network.
Support is available throughout the application process, including help with completing forms and shaping proposals.
Organisations interested in applying can contact the team by emailing [email protected] or calling 01983 823644 during office hours.
Further information is also available on the council’s CRF website here.
