Essential Support Fund

Community Resource: We are pleased to let you know that we have now opened the referral link for our Essential Support Fund.

This fund is delivered by Community Resource, supported by the Crisis and Resilience Fund, and provided in partnership with Shropshire Council and the UK Government.

The fund can support a wide range of urgent and essential needs, helping households facing immediate hardship — not just energy-related costs. We are also working closely with partners to provide advice and support to help build longer-term resilience.

Referral form: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/AwfnQQTZWw

Please read the following before applying:

The purpose of these grants is to support households affected by the cost of living crisis, particularly those facing immediate hardship or at risk of fuel poverty where other sources of support are unavailable.

Where the need is energy payments (Gas, electric, water ) before applying, applicants should first contact their energy supplier, as they may be able to provide direct assistance.

Grants are available to assist with energy and home-related costs:

· Contributions toward energy bills (oil, LPG, electricity, gas, coal or logs) and water bills

· Assistance with arrears for energy and water bills

· Repairs to central heating systems

· Purchase of energy-efficient heating appliances or temporary heating/cooking solutions where needed

· Cold exclusion measures (e.g. carpets, draft-proof curtains)

· Support for a range of urgent or essential costs to help people stay well and avoid financial crisis

Referrals must be made by referral agencies only (no self-referrals)

Please include relevant supporting information where possible, depending on the request, such as:

· A recent bill or statement (for example electricity, gas, oil, LPG, coal/logs or water, where support is being requested)

· Quotes for any items or repairs being applied for (where applicable)

· Confirmation from the referrer that the applicant is experiencing financial hardship*

*please speak to us if you require guidance

If you have any questions, please do get in touch: [email protected]