Who can apply?
Wirral Council can help people and families in crisis. This includes those who need support to settle into the community:
- people leaving care
- people leaving prison
- people leaving hospital
You must:
- be aged 16 or over
- live in Wirral or plan to live here (with accommodation secured)
- need help for your own essential needs or those of people who depend on you
- show you cannot get help from any other reasonable source
- show your health and safety, or that of your dependants, would be at risk without support
The scheme does not cover:
- cash (lost or stolen money)
- funeral costs – visit GOV.UK for help with funeral costs
- maternity costs or new baby items – visit GOV.UK for help with baby costs
- rent costs. You may get help through the council’s bond scheme or Housing Payment.
- essential home repairs. If you rent, your landlord is responsible. If you own your home, you may apply for a heating and renovation loan
- furniture if you rent furnished accommodation; your landlord is responsible
- school uniform. Visit Wirral FUSS for help with school uniform.
- clothes for funerals or job interviews when DWP Flexible Support Fund has been refused
We will ask about your circumstances and finances to assess your need.
If you are waiting for your first Universal Credit payment, you can ask for an advance. You should do this before applying for help with food or utilities. Call 0800 328 5644 or ask at the Jobcentre.