Information for Supporting Organisations

The charity does not usually accept applications directly from applicants. While individuals may take the initiative to complete the form themselves, most applications are completed by a support worker from a local agency who has personal knowledge of the applicant’s circumstances.

The charity typically provides one-off grants for tangible items, such as:

• Essential household furniture and appliances (including delivery and recycling costs of old appliances)
• Laptops or equipment for school children

These grants are generally intended to assist in ‘start-up’ situations, such as:

• Families moving to a new home
• Individuals rebuilding after a crisis

The usual grant limit is between £650 and £900, dependent on the size of the household. If your request is for more than this amount, please explain clearly how the remaining costs will be covered.  The charity will not part-fund a large purchase (such as a fitted carpet) without a plan in place for the remainder of the funds needed.

If multiple items are requested, they should be prioritised by importance.

• Ongoing rent arrears – applicants should seek formal debt advice. A one-time payment may be considered if it would help maintain a tenancy after a temporary crisis
• Ongoing or open-ended costs such as regular transport expenses, long-term storage fees

A supporting letter or statement is required from the support worker assisting with the application.  This should include:

• A brief description of the applicant’s current situation, to include finances, health, housing, family circumstances and employment
• Adequate detail that will allow the Trustees to understand why the grant is needed

This letter should be included with the application form.

To ensure proper use of grant money, grants (paid via BACS) or vouchers will be sent directly to the supporting organisation.

We ask that support workers:

• Provide bank details for their organisation
• Contact information for a colleague in the finance department who can confirm receipt of funds
• Oversee the purchase of the approved items listed on the application form
• Be able to provide proof of purchase

Please note that failure to purchase the approved items may lead to the refusal of future applications from that applicant and restrictions placed on future applications from the organisation involved.

If you have any further questions, please email grants@oxfordcitycharity.org.uk