Support available from the Scottish Welfare Fund

We're reminding local residents struggling with the cost of living crisis that they can apply to the Scottish Welfare Fund for help with essential living costs.

Financial hardship

Published 8 December 2022

The Scottish Welfare Fund is open to residents who are in receipt of benefits or on low incomes and require assistance with food or heating costs. There are two grants within the fund. The Crisis Grant is available for those in a crisis situation, such as a fire or flood in the home or unexpected financial hardship. The Community Care Grant helps with costs to live in the community or keep your family together.

Once a Crisis Grant application has been made, we'll make a decision no later than the end of the next working day. The grant is tax free and doesn't need to be paid back.

Earlier this year the Council announced a £4.4million package of support measures for anyone struggling due to the cost of living crisis and this included an additional £100,000 for the Scottish Welfare Fund.

Council Leader Owen O'Donnell said: 'We know that many across East Renfrewshire this winter are facing unprecedented struggles as the cost of living crisis deepens, but support is available. The Scottish Welfare Fund is in place to help, so I would encourage anyone facing hardship to get in touch with our staff who will explain the process and assist in making an application.'

Find out more about the Scottish Welfare Fund. You can also call 0141 577 3475.

Last modified on 12 December 2022