Hardship Grants

The National Benevolent Charity's Hardship Grants are aimed at individuals experiencing poverty or hardship in Bristol, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, and Swindon. Grant awards range from £150 to £750 (with an average of £379) and are normally made in the form of e-vouchers, bank transfers, or direct payment to suppliers. The grants support essential needs including white goods, household items, food, clothing, priority debts, bankruptcy costs, training or work tools, and floor coverings. In exceptional circumstances, grants may also cover disability aids, minor home repairs, or rent arrears. Applications can be made by individuals themselves with support from a professional support worker, or by support workers on behalf of clients. The charity processes applications through Lightning Reach portal and aims to respond within 15 working days. Households can receive only one grant in any 12-month period, up to a maximum of three grants in any five-year period.