Emergency Grants: Supporting Mental Health When Life Takes an Unexpected Turn
Life can change in an instant. Whether it’s a natural disaster like flooding, a significant illness, or the ongoing effects of the increasing cost of living, unexpected crises can leave individuals and families facing financial hardship—and emotional stress.
This Mental Health Awareness Week, we’re highlighting how financial uncertainty can deeply impact mental wellbeing, and how the Foresters Support Fund is here to help. Our Emergency Discretionary Grants provide vital assistance to members during challenging times—so they can focus on recovery, both financially and emotionally.
What Are Emergency Grants?
Emergency Grants are discretionary financial grants offered to support Foresters Friendly Society members facing sudden and unforeseen life challenges that cause financial hardship. These grants can help cover essential expenses so members can regain stability—without the added strain of financial anxiety, which we know can significantly impact mental health.
Why It Matters for Mental Health
Money and mental health are deeply connected. Stress caused by unexpected bills, temporary loss of income, or the cost of essential items can quickly become overwhelming. During Mental Health Awareness Week, it’s important to remember that help is available—and you’re not alone.
Who Can Apply?
The Foresters Support Fund is available to those who have been members of Foresters Friendly Society for at least six months who are impacted by:
Financial Hardship – from job loss, unexpected events such as natural disasters or illness, or support for essential items during difficult periods.
What the Grant Can Help With
We offer support with a variety of essential and urgent needs during periods of hardship, such as:
Temporary Accommodation Costs if your home becomes uninhabitable.
Essential Living Expenses like food, heating, and utilities.
Essential Items such as wheelchairs, stairlifts, and wet rooms.
Essential Home Repairs to ensure a safe and liveable space.
Each of these areas can place an emotional toll on individuals and families. The Foresters Support Fund is not just financial support—it’s a crucial step toward stability in the midst of crisis, which can aid mental health.
How to Apply for The Foresters Support Fund
You will need to have been a Foresters member for at least 6 months to apply for a discretionary Foresters Support Fund grant. Simply complete the application form and return it to your local Branch Secretary to find out what support may be available.
If you do not know your local Branch Secretary details, use our Branch finder tool.
Not a Foresters member yet?
Joining Foresters is easy and Membership gives you access to a range of other member benefits, and the Foresters Care service.
Join today to become part of a supportive Friendly Society!
External Support Resources
In addition to the Foresters Support Fund, there are several UK-based organisations that offer emergency assistance and support:
- MIND – Mental Health information and support.
- GOV.UK Emergency Financial Assistance – Information on government aid available during crises.
- Turn2us – A charity offering financial support and grants for individuals facing hardship.
- British Red Cross – Emergency help for those affected by disasters in the UK.
- National Flood Forum – Support for those affected by flooding incidents.
- Citizens Advice – Free and impartial advice on financial support and emergency aid.
- Samaritans – A listening ear when you need to talk.
Why Choose Foresters Friendly Society?
At Foresters Friendly Society, we’re more than just financial support—we’re a community that understands life’s challenges. We’re here to provide a helping hand when you need it most, especially during times of hardship that impact your emotional and mental health.
This Mental Health Awareness Week, we encourage anyone facing an emergency to explore the support available. Because financial stability can help aid mental wellbeing.
All grants offered by the Society are discretionary. The membership benefits we provide aren’t regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority or the Prudential Regulation Authority and are regularly reviewed by us to ensure they are relevant to our members. Qualifying periods apply.