Local voluntary, community and faith sector (VCFS) organisations can now apply for a grant to help local households experiencing financial hardship.
Successful applicants can receive a one-time payment of up to £15,000. This payment helps fund activities or projects for vulnerable households in crisis or to prevent hardship.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) provides this money. It must be used for projects that assist residents with energy costs, food, or essential items.
Examples of projects include:
- providing a breakfast club within a school setting
- projects that help with ‘holiday hunger’
- projects that provide energy efficient household items to help reduce fuel poverty
The following organisations can apply if they are working to support people in Bracknell Forest experiencing financial hardship:
- registered charities
- voluntary and community groups
- resident and tenant organisations
- parent teacher associations
- not-for-profit organisations such as community interest companies with a clear social purpose
- national charities and faith groups where the project is accessible to the wider Bracknell Forest community
Grainne Siggins, executive director for people, said:
“We are pleased to be able to offer this funding from the DWP to local groups in Bracknell Forest. We know that things are still financially challenging for residents.
“These organisations have been instrumental in supporting our residents with the cost-of-living challenges so far and we hope that they can continue to provide support for those in greatest need. We know there will be many residents who need support; they may not be in touch with the council but are connected to our local community groups.
We are seeking projects that provide support for food costs, essentials related to energy and water, and initiatives aimed at preventing or alleviating hardship”
Applicants must complete the Household Support Fund VCFS grant application form and provide all requested supporting documents. If applicants meet the eligibility criteria, the council will pass the application to the assessment panel.
For more information and an application form, go to the Household Support Fund Community Grant page.
Applicants must submit the form by Wednesday 18 June 2025. The panel will review applications within a week of this date.
Successful applicants will then receive their funding, which must be fully spent by the 31 March 2026.