In this guide
1. Summary
The Discretionary Assistance Fund provides 2 types of grants that you do not need to pay back.
Emergency Assistance Payment (EAP)
A grant to help pay for essential costs, such as food, gas, electricity, clothing or emergency travel if you:
- are experiencing extreme financial hardship
- have lost your job
- have applied for benefits and are waiting for your first payment
You cannot use it to pay for ongoing bills that you cannot afford to pay.
Individual Assistance Payment (IAP)
A grant to help you or someone you care for live independently in their home or a property that you or they are moving into.
What you can use the grant for
The grant can provide/supply:
- a fridge or washing machine and other ‘white goods’
- home furniture such as beds, sofas and chairs