Who are we?
If you are struggling financially and live in Dorset then we may be able to help.
The Trust has been helping people get white goods, kitchen items, school uniforms, vacuum cleaners, beds, furniture, and household goods.
Whether you are in financial difficulty, fleeing domestic abuse, leaving prison or fighting other difficult situations, we hope to help you.
Who do we help?
We make one-off grants for specific items or projects, to people who are:
- any age, gender, sex, religion, belief, sexual orientation, relationship status, background or race;
- living in Dorset;
- in financial difficulty, and
- unable get funding from government sources.
How can I apply?
Applications need to be referred by a recognised agency/organisation, for example:
- Support Workers;
- Social Services;
- Citizens Advice;
- Charities, e.g. The You Trust, Footprints Project
- Housing associations (e.g. BCHA);
- Probation service;
- Healthcare providers e.g. GP
Unfortunately, we are unable to accept referrals from schools. If you are unsure if an organisation can refer you then please ask them to contact us to discuss it.
How do we pay?
Grants are:
- for small amounts;
- for specific items, including second hand goods;
- usually paid as an online voucher to the referrer for a retailer, e.g. Argos, Amazon or Dorset Reclaim;
- occasionally a contribution to a larger request supported by other bodies; and
- awarded based on the information supplied by the referrer.
What can’t we help with?
We do not make grants for the following:
- Paying debt or bills (including utility bills);
- Sponsorship;
- Childcare – but items for children or childcare needs are acceptable;
- Education/vocational training;
- Carpeting – but rugs are acceptable;
- People living outside Dorset.
We cannot provide on-going funding, and we usually require at least 3 years between applications.
Ready to apply?
An application form should be fully completed and submitted by the referrer.