People who have a physical or sensory impairment or a long term physical health problem and live in Bristol or the surrounding area (Gloucestershire, Somerset, Bath and Wiltshire). Applicants must have a low income, limited savings and be 16 or ov
Eligibility
People who have a physical or sensory impairment or a long term physical health problem and live in Bristol or the surrounding area (Gloucestershire, Somerset, Bath and Wiltshire). Applicants must have a low income, limited savings and be over 16 years old.
Help is available to people who are in recovery from substance misuse or alcoholism, provided they have been drug or alcohol free for at least six months and also have a physical disability or long-term physical health problem.
Exclusions
No help is given to people with mental health problems or people with a learning disability unless they also have a physical disability or long-term physical health problem. Help is not generally given to people who have more than £3,000 in savings.
Help will not be given for holidays; gardening; bankruptcy fees; funeral expenses; decorating labour costs; respite care and care home fees.
Type of grants
Gifts
One-off grants averaging around £300 but never exceeding £500 to help towards mobility aids, home/car adaptations, domestic appliances, furniture and flooring, bedding, clothing, health costs, driving lessons, communication aids, bills and debts.
Short-Term Grants
A period of monthly payments designed to help a person through a time of crisis. For example, help can be given for: debt relief; adjusting to a sudden loss of income; unexpected costs; and, the extra costs involved when undergoing chemotherapy, interferon or similar treatments. Usually up to £25 each week is paid for anywhere between a couple of months up to a maximum of three years. It is important to note that help will only be given if the fund believes that the grants it can offer will make a substantial difference in the long-term.
Applications
On a form available to download from the trust's website or by contacting the fund. If possible, applications should be submitted via a social worker, advice worker or a similar professional, although individuals can apply themselves. Depending on the request, a letter may be needed from an occupational therapist confirming the need for a particular item and why it is not available from statutory funds. Individuals should contact the trust if they are having any difficulties in filling out the form, and if needed a home visit can be arranged to help complete the application. Applicants are usually contacted within two weeks of receipt.
The fund expects you to have applied for statutory funding first, for example community care grants and disabled facilities grants, before applying. They may refer you to a relevant trade or forces benevolent fund
Other information
Grants are also made to organisations whose aim is to support a similar group of beneficiaries, with 14 organisations receiving a total of £139,000 in 2010. The fund also provides sheltered housing and retirement accommodation; support services; recreational and social facilities; and nursing and residential care.
Grant provided by: St Monica Trust Community Fund
Contact Details
Cote Lane
Westbury-on-Trym
Bristol
BS9 3UN
Telephone: 0117 949 4003
Email: communityfund@stmonicatrust.org.uk
Website: www.communityfund.stmonicatrust.org.uk