In today’s challenging economic climate, many individuals and families in the UK are grappling with financial hardships.
Recognising these challenges, Foresters Friendly Society offers the Foresters Support Fund—a Fund that provides discretionary grants designed to assist members facing hardship and financial difficulties.
Understanding the Foresters Support Fund
The Foresters Support Fund provides discretionary non-repayable grants to members experiencing unforeseen financial challenges. This support aims to alleviate financial pressures, allowing members to focus on recovery and stability without the added concern of debt or financial pressure.
Eligibility Criteria
All members of Foresters Friendly Society, regardless of age, are eligible to apply for discretionary assistance from the Foresters Support Fund if they have been a member of the Society for at least six months. Whether facing unexpected life events, or other financial hardships, the Fund is designed to provide support to those in need.
The Growing Need for Financial Support in 2025
Recent statistics highlight the increasing financial pressures on UK households:
- Rising Cost of Living: As of December 2024, 64% of households in Great Britain reported an increase in their cost of living compared to the previous month. This ongoing trend underscores the financial strain many are experiencing.
- Healthcare Challenges: Projections indicate that mental health conditions are among the fastest-growing health issues in the UK, significantly contributing to health inequalities. This rise not only affects individual well-being but also leads to increased healthcare expenses for many families or in some cases, loss of earnings due to time taken off work.
Types of Assistance Provided
The Foresters Support Fund offers grants to cover a range of essential expenses:
- Crisis Relief: Support for members affected by unforeseen events such as natural disasters, providing financial relief during challenging times.
- Financial Hardship: Assistance for members experiencing financial hardship due to an illness or injury, personal crises such as being out of work, or needing help with the cost of essential items such as a boiler, chairlifts, wheelchairs and other items during hardship.
How to Apply
Members seeking assistance can apply by completing the application form and returning it to their Branch Secretary. The application process is straightforward, and your local Foresters Branch Secretary is ready to guide you through each step to ensure you receive the support you need.
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.
Interested in becoming a member?
Enjoy all the benefits of being a member, including discretionary financial support, practical help, as well as social and community events.
Real-Life Impact
The Foresters Support Fund has been instrumental in helping members navigate financial challenges. Recipients have expressed gratitude for the timely assistance, noting that it has enabled them to focus on recovery, education, and rebuilding their lives during difficult periods without the added stress of financial strain.
A Commitment to Community Support
At Foresters Friendly Society, we are deeply committed to the well-being of our members. The Support Fund exemplifies our dedication to mutual aid, ensuring that no member faces financial hardship alone.
Conclusion
In a time when financial uncertainties are prevalent, the Foresters Support Fund stands as a vital resource for members in need. We encourage any member facing financial difficulties to reach out and explore how the Fund can provide assistance. Together, we can overcome challenges and build a more secure future.
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.