It’s the start of a new month, so the hardship grants June 2022 round-up is here. People often start googling terms such as “get money now” and “get money quick” and read our many suggestions for often fun ways to make quick cash.
However, one thing a lot of people aren’t fully aware of is that there are hardship grants available when times are hard. With everything from help for talented young musicians to help to get mobility aids, take a look and see if any apply to you.
ENERGY
This is one that thousands of people across the UK will be anxious about. There are a lot of ways to get help:
If you can’t get a grant from your supplier, you might be able to get a grant from the British Gas Energy Trust. These grants are available to anyone – you don’t have to be a British Gas customer. You’ll need to get debt advice before applying – get help from a debt adviser like Citizens Advice.
If you’ve already spoken to a debt adviser – check if you can get a grant from the British Gas Energy Trust.
DEBTS
Problems with debts, benefits or tax credits make it harder to pay your rent or mortgage. Stay in touch with your landlord or lender. Let them know you’re taking steps to get advice and deal with your situation.
How to deal with mortgage arrears
Some debt advice is regulated. For example, advice on breathing space, debt relief orders, IVAs or bankruptcy. These charities give regulated debt advice:
REGIONAL
THE NORTON FOUNDATION
Provide financial assistance for young people under the age of 25 whose development will benefit as a result. Applicants must live in the geographical area of Birmingham, Solihull, Coventry and Warwickshire. Grants are considered monthly and can be as high as £500, they can be made for clothiers, training, education and household goods. For more information, click here.
YOUNG PEOPLE
Lawrence Atwell’s Charity provides grants to young people aged between 16 – 26 from low-income backgrounds. They will award between £100 – £1500 to help young people gain accredited vocational qualifications. Applications are taken at any point throughout the year. You are encouraged to apply at least 8 weeks before your start date.
NATIONAL
THOMAS WALL TRUST
The individual grants aim to support motivated adults in the UK to undertake education and training that will increase employment opportunities. Applicants can apply for up to £1500 towards course fees and or costs associated with studying.
To apply you must be:
- Aged 18 and over
- Experiencing financial and other challenges e.g. disability, major trauma or a life event, mental health issues, carer responsibilities, care leaver, estranged from family, English language learners (ELL), child care responsibilities.
- Have been unemployed for at least 6 months within the last 2 years.
- Have the right to work and study in the UK, and have lived in the UK for at least 3 years.
- From a low-income household
For more information follow the link to the website.
WPH CHARITABLE TRUST
WPH consider multiple types of applications for everything from re-training as a result of disability to home adaptations. You can apply here.
FAMILY FUND
UK Charity Family Fund provides assistance to families with disabled children. Grants have been given out for a range of items from sensory toys, family breaks, outdoor play equipment, clothing and more. Their aim is to support families and make a real difference. The deadline for applications is ongoing and more information can be found here.
THE BOOTS BENEVOLENT FUND
The Boots Benevolent Fund provides funding to ex and current Boots employees in the UK who are going through financial hardship. They can provide grants, interest-free loans and supermarket vouchers for a variety of needs.
MUSICIANS
Help Musicians: Support to Record and Release Music
You can apply for funding of up to £3000 towards recording and releasing music. Help musicians also facilitate one-to-one advice sessions with industry professionals.
Awardees receive:
- £3,000 in financial support towards creative output
- one-to-one business advice sessions tailored to your needs and delivered via experienced music industry professionals, as coordinated by ThinkMusic
- one-to-one health consultation with British Association for Performing Arts Medicine (BAPAM) professionals, covering all aspects of a musician’s health, including physical and mental health needs and specialist referrals where required
The support is for professional UK musicians of all genres over 18, with a focus on independent creators who are controlling one or more aspects of their careers. Apply here.
For last month’s round-up click here.