Scottish Welfare Fund

The Scottish Welfare Fund is administered by local councils, in line with Scottish
Government regulations. It can provide help as cash, goods, vouchers
or travel tickets.

There are two types of grant:

• Crisis Grants to help in an emergency or a disaster, normally for things like food, heating and urgent travel expenses
• Community Care Grants to help someone live in the community, normally for things like cookers, beds and removal expenses

Crisis Grants and Community Care Grants do not have to be repaid.

You need to apply to the council in the area where you live, or where you plan to live if you are moving to a new area. The way you can apply for help will vary between local councils, but applications are usually made online, by phone or on paper application forms.

You can apply for yourself, or someone else can apply on your behalf if you agree. If you need help to make your claim, you could ask an independent advice agency such as a Citizens Advice Bureau to help you.

Benefit Workshops

The benefits system is complicated. It can be difficult to work out what you are entitled to, and how to claim it. Find out more about joining one of our Benefit Workshops here.