Apply for Help

Apply for financial support

If you work or have worked in the education of under-19s in the UK for at least five years and need help, just ask. We respond to all applications within two working days.

Start your application

How it works

Check you're eligible

You've worked in the education of under-19s in the UK for at least five years and are facing unexpected financial hardship.

See full eligibility & funding criteria →

Submit your application

Tell us about your circumstances and what you need help with. It's free to apply and there's nothing to pay back.

Hear back in 2 days

We respond to every application within two working days, so you're not left waiting when it matters most.

What we can help with

When someone close to you dies
When you're ill, experiencing poor mental health or injured
If your relationship breaks down
If you lose your job or income
When you suddenly have to move

Our one-time payments can help with priority bills, housing costs, food, travel or other essentials. They are not loans — you don't have to pay us back, and it costs nothing to apply.

Apply now

Also worth exploring

We partner with Lightning Reach, a free online portal that helps you find and apply for financial support from multiple providers all in one place — including help with energy bills, fuel vouchers and home efficiency upgrades.