Welfare and Grant Giving
How can we help?
Friends of the Elderly's Welfare and Grant Giving helps older people in a number of ways:
• by providing one-off grants for essential items such as mobility aids, clothing, basic furniture, household white goods and appliances, property repairs and adaptations
• with regular allowances paid monthly or twice a year, to support older people living at home who are on a low income
• we keep in touch with beneficiaries by telephone and letter
• by sending a handmade birthday card, and at Christmas a present and a card
• by sign-posting to other potential sources of funding.
"Friends of the Elderly's grant has given me back two of the greatest gifts in life - peace of mind and independence. Thank you."
Who is Eligible?
Men and women who live in England or Wales, aged 60 or over (over 50 for homeless people), with a low income and minimal savings, are eligible for support. We cannot help people living in residential care. Friends of the Elderly prioritises its grants for people who are not eligible for help from any other trade, professional or Service benevolent fund. However, contributions will be made towards expensive items along with other charities.
Exceptions
The scope of Friends of the Elderly's grants is wide, but regrettably no help can be given with Council Tax payments, care home fees, rent arrears or non-UK respite breaks (excluding Republic of Ireland). We also cannot make payments in retrospect for items already purchased.
How to apply
Applications should be made by a third party organisation such as Social Services, the Citizens Advice Bureau, Age Concern, etc. A separate application form must be requested on behalf of each applicant.
When the application is successful
A cheque for a one-off grant will be made payable to the referring organisation (or company providing the equipment or service), but not to an individual. Payment of regular allowances will be arranged to suit an individual's needs.
Comments from third party organisations:
I am writing on behalf of Mrs D to thank you for the financial assistance to enable her to repair her leaking roof. She has been upset about it, not to mention cold and damp, so this will make a huge difference.
I wish to acknowledge your cheque of £200 on behalf of Mr H towards the cost of his household items. This will go a long way in promoting his good health and immensely improving his home situation.