What we do
We make one-off grants to people any age, who are in financial hardship and unable to obtain funding from statutory sources. These funds are available to people living in the county of Dorset.
How often we give grants
The Trustees meet once each quarter to consider applications for assistance. Applications need to be supported by a recognised agency or primary healthcare worker, ie Support Workers, Social Services, Citizens Advice, Lifestyles, Aidis Trust, The You Trust, Footprints Project, BCHA, Turn2Us or other similar organisations.
How we pay and whom
Grants/pledges are nearly always for specific items or projects, and paid in the form of a gift voucher for a specific retailer; very rarely are they paid by cheque or debit card. Grants are awarded on the basis of the information supplied, and only in exceptional circumstances will they exceed £300. The Trustees may agree to make a contribution to a larger project. In such a case, they make a pledge (a promise of a certain sum of money), which remains available for 12 months from the date it is agreed. A pledge is payable upon written confirmation being received from the recognised supporting agency, that the rest of the money has been raised and the project can go ahead. Upon receipt of a grant, the recipient is required to complete and sign a receipt to confirm that they have received the money. The Trustees cannot consider requests for on-going funding; and they generally require at least 3 years between applications from a single individual, except in exceptional circumstances.
Urgent requests
If a request is particularly urgent, it may be considered between meetings provided that the supporting agency confirms that the case is urgent. In such cases the request will be referred to the Chairman and Deputy Chairman for consideration.
What we can’t help with
Please note that the Trustees cannot consider making grants in the following areas:
- Sponsorship
- Childcare
- Debt
- People living outside of Dorset
- Organisations
How to apply
An Application Form should be fully completed and submitted (by either the person requiring assistance or the referring agent). The application will then be considered at the next Trustees’ quarterly meeting and you will be informed of the decision shortly afterwards. Go here to to submit an Application Form.