At the Baily Thomas Provident Fund, we understand that many of our beneficiaries are facing increasing financial pressures, especially in light of the ongoing cost of living crisis.  

We are committed to offering support through our hardship grant which is available to those beneficiaries who are experiencing proven short-term hardship.  

 

What is the hardship grant 

The hardship grant is designed to offer temporary financial relief to beneficiaries who are struggling to meet their essential living expenses such as mortgage and rent payments, utility bills and necessary white goods.   

If you find yourself in a position of temporary hardship whether due to ill health, job loss or an unexpected life event, you may be eligible to apply.  

 

Who can apply? 

To be eligible for the hardship grant, you must be able to demonstrate that your hardship is temporary. This could include situations such as:  

  • Ill health or medical diagnosis 

  • Job loss or reduced income 

  • Relationship issues or family crisis 

  • Unexpected expenses that have impacted your finances significantly  

 

What does the hardship grant cover? 

The hardship grant is available to assist with essential living expenses only, including:  

  • Rent or mortgage payments  

  • Utility bills such as gas, electric and water  

  • Essential white goods such as fridges, freezers and washing machines or boiler repair/replacement  

The trust’s policy is to pay your provider directly where possible, this may include your mortgage provider, landlord or utility provider. Where white goods are required, these are sourced directly through our partnership with Currys.  

Please note that the grant is designed to cover temporary support only and will typically be awarded as a one-off payment or for up to three months of support, depending on your circumstances.  

 

How to Apply  

To apply for the hardship grant, please download and complete the application form, including the income/outgoings section. 

Hardship Grant Application Form

Hardship Grant Income & Expenditure Form

 
In addition, we will require the following to be submitted as part of your application:  

  • Proof of income (three months) e.g. pay slips, any benefit income 

  • Proof of essential expenses (including rent/mortgage payments, utility bills). Please note mortgage statements, rental agreements, utility bills and bank statements should be provided as part of your application  

  • Documented evidence of the circumstances that led to your hardship (e.g. job loss, ill health diagnosis, relationship issues or unexpected costs).  

Support beyond the grant  

We strongly encourage all applicants to seek additional financial support from our financial coaching partner, Maji. Where you are experiencing debt, we ask that you seek advice from a debt advice service; Maji can signpost you to these also. 

While the Trust is here to offer temporary relief, we believe financial coaching and expert advice is key to managing your financial challenges and ensuring a better long-term financial position for you and your family. Further information about the Maji service can be found here: Financial Coaching | Baily Thomas Provident Fund 

Discretion of the trustee  

Please note that all grants are awarded at the discretion of the trustees. The trustees will carefully consider your application based on the information you provide.