What types of help can I get?

Charities might be able to offer you help, depending on their purpose and resources. This includes:  

• financial aid eg. money to pay for an essential item or to clear an energy debt. 
• Goods eg. a voucher.  
• Services eg. a holiday for a disabled person or carer. 

Who can get help

All charities have purposes, which say what they do and who they can help. You might get help from charities if you are: 

• Facing unexpected debts or family changes like a new child. 
• Dealing with illness or disability. 
• Needing help to set up a new home. 

How to find charitable help

• Turn2us offers a grants search to help you find charitable help based on your situation.
• Various benevolent funds and local agencies could help.
• For energy or water bill help, visit Turn2us’s Help with Energy and Water Bills.
• For emergency food, contact The Trussell Trust and the Independent Food Aid Network.
• The Money Saving Expert website and GOV.UK offer information on grants and welfare schemes.
• Our guide has tips on applying for charitable help.

Benevolent funds

Benevolent funds are charities that help people in difficult times. Many are for people who work (or have worked) in a particular industry or organisation. For example, if you are a nurse, you could search for their benevolent fund on the website. Partners and children can usually get help too.

How do I apply for help?

Ask the charity or benevolent fund how you should apply. They will have their own application process. This usually includes filling in forms and giving information about your situation. Some charities may say you need somebody to apply for you. This is usually somebody like a doctor or social worker.