Behçet’s UK Personal Grant Aid Fund
What is the aim of the grants fund?
The aim of Behçet’s UK Personal Grant Aid Fund is to improve the quality of life, independence, mobility and dignity of anyone who has Behçet’s where their illness is causing financial difficulty.
Can I apply for a grant?
You may be eligible for a grant from Behçet’s UK Personal Grant Fund if you are a member of Behçet’s UK and meet the following criteria:
- a current member of Behçet’s UK, for at least six months
- a resident of the UK
- aged 18 or over
- have a confirmed Behçet’s diagnosis
- suffering financial difficulty due to your diagnosis
- have not received a grant from Behçet’s UK (formerly Behçet’s Syndrome Society) within the last 5 years
How much can I apply for?
Grants are typically awarded for up to £500. In exceptional circumstances the board will consider an award up to the maximum grant of £1000.
What can I apply for?
We can provide funds for a wide range of goods provided the need arises directly as a result of having Behçet’s and the goods asked for can be shown to make a real difference to the applicant’s quality of life. Some examples of grants recently awarded:
- Mobility aids
- Washing machines
- Beds and bedding
- Refrigerator
- Aids to daily living
Please note: Household bills or debts cannot be considered, please seek help from your local Social Services, Citizens’ Advice Bureau, Citizens’ Advice Scotland, or The National Debt Line.
Are there any other important notes?
Yes, please note that we will NOT:
- award grants for ongoing living costs such as utilities, food, clothing, luxury items or holidays
- award grants for any ongoing regular financial commitments such as mortgage, rent, HP or credit card repayments
- make any loans available to applicants
- provide retrospective grants awards i.e. refund costs which have already been spent
- give annual or ongoing grants
- provide goods which are the responsibility of statutory agencies (Social Services or the National Health Service
- award grants to anyone who has been a member of Behçet’s UK for less than six months from date of application
- make payments to the applicant, all payments will be made directly to the supplier(s)
- accept a further grant application within 5 years of a grant being made
How do I apply?
Please contact the Administration team at info@behcetsuk.org or call 0345 130 7328 if you require a copy to be sent by post, or if you have any queries.
Please send your completed application form (pages 5 and 6 of the pack) by post with copies of all supporting documentation to: Behçet’s UK, 124 City Road, LONDON, EC1V 2NX.
We can accept applications via email but please ensure confidential information is sent in an encrypted/password protected format. You can contact us by telephone on 0345 130 7328 to provide the password.
Please note: you will need to evidence your Behçet’s diagnosis and financial position as part of the application process. Your application will be processed in the strictest confidence.