What are they?

•  They are grants to help you live independently in the community. They can therefore help with things like furniture and other moving-in expenses.

•  You do not have to pay them back (unlike loans).

Do I need to be on benefits?

Yes. You must be claiming Income Support or Income-based Jobseekers Allowance (or be likely to get one of these benefits if you are about to leave residential or institutional care).

In what situations can I get a Community Care Grant

If you qualify, it will probably have to be for one of the following reasons:

•  As part of a planned Resettlement programme. This will usually be arranged for you, for example by a charity or housing association which is running a hostel you are living in.

•  To help you settle into the community after a stay in residential care or an institution. This might, for example, be after staying in a hostel or in prison (the stay usually has to have been at least 3 months). So, for example, you might apply for a Community Care Grant yourself before leaving a hostel, if there is no resettlement plan.

•  To help you stay in your new home and not have to go into residential care or an institution. For example, you might apply for a Community Care Grant where you have found yourself a flat but there is a danger that it might not work out if you cannot get basic items like furniture.

What can a Community Care grant be used for?

It can be used for different things to help you settle into a new flat:

•  Furniture, beds and bedding.

•  Appliances like cookers and fridges.

•  Household equipment.

•  Floor covering and curtains.

•  Connection charges such as for gas and electricity.

•  Removal costs.

How much can I apply for?

There is no set limit to how much you can claim.

How to Apply

•  You apply on form SF300. You can get a copy from your local jobcentre or download a copy here.

•  Give full details of each of the items you need. Try to be as specific as possible (for example, list each item of furniture rather than just asking for ‘furniture’).

•  Include the actual cost or a reasonable estimate for each item.

•  Explain how a grant will help you to become settled in the community.

•  Try to show why your application should get high priority. For example, you have had a long time sleeping rough or you have physical or mental health problems.

•  You could also supply supporting evidence. For example, from a doctor or support worker.

•  The Jobcentre should give you a copy of its local guidelines if you ask.

Getting Help

If you are not applying as part of a resettlement plan (where your resettlement officer is likely to help you with the application) try to get the help of an advice worker or support worker. This could greatly increase your chances of success. See Getting Help and Advice.