Why grants?
We know that grants can make a big impact
Providing financial assistance through grants allows people to take control of their own journey out of homelessness, helping them rebuild their lives on their own terms.
Our grants offer more than just practical support – they provide hope, and a path forward when things can otherwise feel hopeless.
We’re one of very few charities that provide personal grants to help people out of homelessness. Over many years, we’ve seen the enormously positive impact that a grant can have.
Grants for individuals
We support people through grants of up to £200, because we know from experience that this approach delivers life-changing outcomes.
Research has shown that when people are trusted with financial support to spend on the things they know will help them, the results are very positive. We see this every day – people using our grants to improve their quality of life, build confidence, and take meaningful steps towards independence.
For many, benefits like Universal Credit barely cover the basics, making it difficult – if not impossible – to afford the things that can truly help them move forward. Our grants can be used for a wide range of needs, including:
Moving costs: helping people move into social housing or start their first private tenancy.
Clothes and footwear: providing protection, comfort, and confidence.
Education and training: supporting people to gain qualifications or learn new skills for employment.
Digital inclusion: providing devices and data so that people can access services and opportunities and connect with family and friends.
Travel expenses: covering the costs of visiting family, attending job interviews, or accessing essential services.
Personal hobbies and wellbeing: from painting supplies to musical instruments, we help fund activities that help people through challenging times.
These grants are more than just financial assistance – they are a lifeline, providing people with the chance to regain a sense of control, dignity, and self-worth.
Tailored to the individual
Each grant application we receive is unique, reflecting the individual needs and circumstances of the person it supports.
The people we help are at different points on their journey out of homelessness. Some have just moved into supported accommodation after sleeping rough and need essentials like toiletries or clothing. Others are further along, preparing to move into a place of their own, and applying for resettlement items to help them settle in.
After receiving a grant, we ask for feedback on how it has helped. Hearing directly from people about the difference a grant can make helps us understand its impact – and shows just how powerful even a small grant can be.
Extended support
We sometimes support people more than once to help make the transition from supported accommodation to permanent housing successful. A grant to improve their living space can help someone feel settled, take pride in their surroundings, and be less likely to return to the streets.
An example of extended support could look like:
Grant 1
Clothes, a mobile phone and new ID as someone comes off the streets and into supported accommodation. Often, people arrive with one set of clothes, no ID (essential for applying for benefits and housing) and no phone to help them keep in touch with support services (such as drug and alcohol support services) or the job centre/Universal Credit.
Grant 2
Funds for a TV, fitness equipment for their room, or materials for a hobby. Some individuals find it difficult to stay indoors for long periods of time without a positive outlet or source of entertainment. Many recognise that going back to the street out of boredom can lead them back to negative relationships and addictions.
Grant 3
When someone has successfully engaged with services and is ready to move on, then is lucky enough to be offered a home, these homes can be unfurnished; even missing carpets, window coverings and white goods. A resettlement grant can help towards furnishing a home – turning empty spaces into comfortable surroundings that people want to stay in.
Group grants
We also give grants to our registered partner schemes, helping them to provide communal activities that encourage connection, build trust, and foster a sense of community. For many people, leaving the isolation of their rooms and engaging in group activities can be a crucial step towards recovery.
Over the years, our group grants have funded:
Skills-based learning
Including cooking classes, IT training, and practical workshops that prepare people for independent living.
Therapeutic support
From one-on-one counselling to group therapy, as well as music, sports, and gardening therapy – powerful ways for people to rewire their thought processes and find a way forward.
Social activities
Like pool tables, games nights, and movie nights – to encourage residents to interact, build friendships, and form supportive networks.
Day trips
To the seaside, zoos, or on mountain hikes – providing a break from routine and a chance to reconnect with nature.
By supporting both individuals and groups, we aim to make a lasting impact – helping people not just survive but thrive.
Every grant, no matter how small, can be a critical stepping stone towards a brighter, more hopeful future.For real-life stories of how our grants are changing lives, visit our Stories page.