Still time for families to apply for May half-term support

Families can still apply for school holiday payments through the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) for May half term.

If you are receiving  means-tested Free School Meals (FSM) and need help with essential costs during the holidays, you can apply online until Sunday, 31st May 2026.

Visit the Council's Crisis and Resilience Fund webpage to find out more and apply: 

School Holiday Support Payment | Cheshire West and Chester Council 

If you have already applied and been awarded the fund before the spring break, you will have already received your May half term payments.  

Please note: school holiday payments are no longer made automatically to families who are receiving Free School Meals, so you will need to apply if you need support. 

Applications for the summer holidays are expected to open in June. 

More information will be shared soon. 

The Crisis and Resilience Fund replaced the Household Support Fund in April 2026. It ensures that financial support for families who need it. The fund also gives longer term support to boost income and manage debt so that people feel more confident and secure when unexpected money problems arise. 

Debbie Hall, Director of Finance at Cheshire West and Chester Council, said:

“We know that school holidays can put extra pressure on family budgets. The Crisis and Resilience Fund is here to help those who need it with the cost of essentials, and I’d encourage anyone who may be eligible to apply before the deadline. 

“It’s important to remember that these payments are no longer automatic, so families receiving Free School Meals do need to apply to access this support. Alongside school holiday payments, the fund also offers wider help for anyone experiencing unexpected financial difficulties and provides long-term support to build people’s confidence and skills with money.” 

Not just school holidays 

As well as the school holiday support payments, there are a number of other costs that the Crisis and Resilience Fund can help you with.

Visit the Crisis and Resilience Fund webpage for more information about support with: 

• Crisis payments 

• Help in Emergencies for Local People (HELP) 

• Housing Payments and Discretionary Hardship Payments 

• Heating oil support 

There is also information and support available on the Council’s cost of living webpages, which bring together information about financial help, advice services, and emergency assistance: 

https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/residents/benefits-and-welfare-help/cost-of-living