Stratford Town Trust hardship grants

We provide hardship grants for individuals through Citizens Advice South Warwickshire, (CASW). These grants can be used to pay for small, one-off items such as bedding, furniture, clothing, heating appliances and white goods such as microwaves and fridges and can make a huge difference to people who find themselves in challenging financial situations due to difficult circumstances. In 2021, Citizens Advice supported over fifty individuals through this scheme. Here is the story of one of them: (*name changed to protect identity)

John* was referred to CASW from South Warwickshire Community Mental Health and Wellbeing Team for support for his safety and wellbeing. Working in partnership, CASW were able to build John’s confidence and help him deal with his debts and housing issues.

With relevant support workers, CASW ensured John was able to move from his mental health residence into a flat of his own in Stratford-upon-Avon. It was evident that he would need practical support to enable him to live independently, especially as John had no white goods, furniture, carpets, cutlery, crockery or utensils of his own to take with him.

Through the Stratford Town Trust hardship grant, CASW secured blackout blinds required for his mental health issues and new carpets to give him a good start in his new home. 

CASW liaised with energy suppliers to ensure the Warm Home Discount was applied. He also received furniture from Roundabout in Evesham. John is now very happy in his flat.

Julie Robinson, CEO of Citizens Advice South Warwickshire commented: ”Our role is to give people the advice they need to move forward positively in their lives, and for many clients with complex and challenging circumstances, we need to work alongside them, putting in place the 'building blocks' to help them feel safe and secure. Supporting someone to create a home of their own, to have the benefit of a warm and safe space, with the basics they need as a building block for the next stage of their journey is absolutely fundamental. Carpets and other home essentials create this place of safety, and we couldn't do this work, and get these practical outcomes for clients, without the support of Stratford Town Trust and other local charitable organisations.”