Were you aware that nearly 5 million UK residents lack a fundamental household item like a stove, washer, or fridge?
Thankfully, numerous charitable groups, governmental bodies, and corporate entities have stepped in to assist. The White Goods Grant, a government initiative, exists to aid financially constrained UK families in acquiring necessary home equipment.
In this article, you will learn what is White Goods Grant, how to apply for it, who is eligible for this grant, and what items are covered in this grant.
What is White Goods Grant
White goods grants offer crucial assistance to individuals facing financial challenges, allowing them to obtain or upkeep necessary home appliances. Nonetheless, it’s essential to understand and fulfill the particular requirements set by the affiliated charities and groups to benefit from this aid.
Eligibility for the White Goods Grant
To be eligible for the White Goods Grant, there are certain conditions applicants must fulfill. They either need to be on certain financial assistance programs or earn a low income. Those who get Pension Credit, Income Support, or Universal Credit and show they’re struggling with money can apply for the grant.
Also, local councils have programs to help people in financial trouble who can’t afford necessary home items.
Household Items Covered by the White Goods Grant
The White Goods Grant pays for essential home appliances like fridges, freezers, washers, and cooking ranges. Some local rules might allow for other household items to be included as well.
Criteria for Eligibility
To be eligible for the White Good Grant, individuals need to be 16 or older, reside in the UK, and hold no more than £500 in their savings. This grant is accessible to both property owners and tenants, and recipients aren’t required to pay it back.
Through the White Goods Grant, qualified individuals can obtain interest-free loans to buy vital home appliances like washers, fridges, and ovens. Additionally, this grant can assist in mending or replacing existing necessary home equipment.
How to Apply for the White Goods Grant?
You can apply for the grant by reaching out to your local government. Find their contact details on the official government website. When reaching out, be prepared to show evidence of your financial struggles and any benefits or income details.
Usually, applicants receive a form that they need to fill out and send back, either through post or email. After reviewing the filled-out form, the local government will determine if the applicant qualifies for the loan.
Companies and Charity Involved In White Goods Grant
Family Fund
Family Fund is a charity situated in the UK, dedicated to assisting families who are caring for a child under 17 with disabilities or severe illnesses.
The majority of their grant requests are for items like washers, apparel, PCs, linens, home furnishings, and outdoor recreational gear.
To apply for an appliance grant through this foundation, you don’t need a formal diagnosis. However, evidence of receiving benefits (such as housing benefits, income aid, universal credit, and so on) is mandatory. Additionally, your child should fulfill the criteria in at least three out of the foundation’s seven support areas.
Greggs Foundation
Initiated in 1993, the Hardship Fund by the Greggs Foundation provides grants for essential household items, including white goods.
To date, this fund has contributed over £3 million to various charities in the North East of England.
In collaboration with the East Durham Partnership, the foundation aids households facing monetary challenges by offering appliances like stoves, washing machines, and fridges/freezers. They also extend their support by providing financial aid for essentials like baby gear, food items, floor coverings, and bedding.
While the foundation aims for weekly reviews of applications, they prioritize assisting the most economically disadvantaged families, especially those in dire need of essential items that can significantly enhance their living conditions.
Glasspool Charity Trust
Glasspool offers support in acquiring essential household items like stoves, washing machines, and various cooling and drying appliances, especially if there’s a health or disability concern or no means to dry clothes. In addition to these, they provide funds for essentials such as furniture, attire, linens, floor coverings, and baby gear for those facing financial difficulties.
What sets this charity apart is its flexible approach. They don’t have specific eligibility rules; you simply need to live in the UK and approach them for assistance via registered care professionals.
E.ON Energy Fund
E.ON Group, a leading energy network company in Europe, has initiated an Energy Fund dedicated to assisting its current and former customers grappling with financial challenges. This Fund facilitates the replacement of essential home appliances like stoves, refrigerators, washing machines, and gas boilers. Moreover, it aids in settling outstanding energy bills.
While E.ON strives to support numerous individuals, they particularly focus on those with acute needs, especially those who’ve sought financial counsel from an agency approved by the FCA.
For those looking to benefit from this fund, be prepared to present proof like benefits entitlements, medical documentation, and evidence of ongoing electricity bill payments.
British Gas Energy Trust
The British Gas Energy Trust is dedicated to assisting people and families grappling with their electricity or gas bill arrears.
This initiative extends grants not only to British Gas clients but also to patrons of other energy suppliers. These grants aim to alleviate outstanding energy charges, allowing recipients to proceed without the burden of energy-related debts.
In addition, the trust channels funds to community-based organizations. These funds support services like boiler maintenance or replacement, the incorporation of energy-saving home solutions and appliances, and counsel on fuel debt and financial management.