Green’s Dictionary of Slang

(W.I.) assistance, esp. in a difficult situation; thus give one an ease-up, to help.

1957		S. Selvon Ways of Sunlight 156: Everybody hard-up, and you can’t get a ease-up from your best friend.
1965		S. Selvon Housing Lark 130: He been coming to me and asking for an ease-up with the rent!