Information for Individuals Seeking Assistance

• To apply for assistance, you must have been a resident in the City of Oxford for at least three years prior to applying
• There are no restrictions based on personal or family status – whether you are single, married or part of a family, you’re welcome to apply
• If you have received a grant from us in the past you are welcome to apply again, although previous awards will be taken into consideration
• All applications for relief in need must come via a supporting agency
• Education grants are available to applicants under 25, but are not normally awarded beyond first-degree level or to those living in Oxford solely as students
• All applications for educational grants must come via a school, college or relevant supporting organisation

All applicants for relief-in-need grants must be supported by a professional who knows your circumstances.

This person will:

• Help you complete the application form
• Write a letter of support which explains your situation in more detail
• Receive the grant funds on your behalf (if your application is successful)
• Help you purchase the approved items

We regularly work with the following agencies:

• Citizens Advice Oxford
• Agnes Smith Advice Centre
• Barton Advice Centre
• Rose Hill and Donnington Advice Centre
• Rose Hill Children and Families Centre
• The Leys Children and Families Centre
• Barton Children and Families Centre
• Connections Support
• Oxfordshire County and City Council departments
• Social workers
• Health visitors
• Housing associations
• Schools (for education-related applications)

We fund a wide variety of needs, including:

• Supporting the homeless with winter clothing and other essentials
• Supporting those in need with essential equipment such as wheelchairs
• Supporting those seeking refuge with essential household items

There are no strict limits on what we will consider, however:

• Specific items must be listed on the application
• Typical grant amounts range from £650-£900
• If applying for multiple items, please list them in priority order
• For large items (such as fitted carpets), it is helpful to explain where the remaining funding will come from if the total cost exceeds the grant

We strongly advise that you complete the application form with your support worker, as they have experience and can help avoid errors or omissions.

Please remember to:

• Answer all questions honestly
• Pay close attention to the income and expenses section
• Ensure figures are clear and accurate – unclear or unrealistic entries may delay or affect the outcome of your application

Grants are not paid directly to applicants. Funds will be sent directly to the supporting organisation that assisted with the application form. In most cases, it is easiest to issue an Argos voucher, allowing your support worker to order the items on your behalf.