Grants and charitable support can make a real difference in Surrey. Unlike loans, grants do not need to be repaid. This guide covers where to look, how to apply and what to be realistic about.
This guide is for general information only. It is not financial advice. Free debt help is available from charities and public bodies. Always check fees, terms, and eligibility before using a paid service.
Turn2us runs a free grants search engine at turn2us.org.uk. You enter your situation and it finds charitable funds you may be eligible for. Many grants are small but can help with specific needs such as white goods, clothing, travel costs or utility bills.
Check your local council in Surrey for the Household Support Fund, discretionary hardship funds and local welfare assistance schemes. Surrey County Council and the borough councils run separate support schemes. The county has lower deprivation overall but there are pockets of financial hardship. Check your local council for current help. These are updated regularly so check the council website or call your council directly.
Many charities support people who work or have worked in specific industries or occupations. If you have worked in teaching, nursing, the forces, retail, the police or many other sectors, there may be a charity that can help. Turn2us can search these.
Community foundations operate in most areas and distribute small grants to individuals and families. Search for your local community foundation and check their current grant programmes.
If you or a family member has a health condition or disability, specialist charities may be able to help with costs. Citizens Advice can point you to relevant organisations.
Surrey County Council and the borough councils run separate support schemes. The county has lower deprivation overall but there are pockets of financial hardship. Check your local council for current help. High proportion of professional commuting households, families, retirees, and some pockets of deprivation in areas such as Spelthorne, Reigate and Banstead.
Paid service: these may charge a fee. Compare free options first and check the terms before you continue.
Benefits and Grants Advice Service
Some paid services help people identify and apply for grants and benefits. Check whether free services provide the same help before paying. Citizens Advice and Turn2us are free and comprehensive.
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Start with free support. The services listed above are free, experienced and cover all the main options available to you. You do not need to pay to get good financial help.
If you want personalised guidance, Ask Fin can help you work through your situation and point you in the right direction — this is general guidance, not regulated financial advice.
How do I find grants I am eligible for?
Turn2us is the most comprehensive free grants search for individuals in the UK. Enter your situation and it will show relevant charitable funds. Citizens Advice can also help.
Are there local emergency grants in Surrey?
Yes. Surrey County Council and the borough councils run separate support schemes. The county has lower deprivation overall but there are pockets of financial hardship. Check your local council for current help. Contact your local council or Citizens Advice for information on what is currently available.
Do I need to pay to access charitable grants?
No. Legitimate charitable grants are free to apply for. Be cautious of any service charging a fee to search for or apply for grants on your behalf — Turn2us and Citizens Advice provide this help for free.
What if I am turned down for a grant?
Grants are competitive and eligibility criteria can be narrow. If you are turned down, ask for feedback, check whether you can reapply in future, and continue searching Turn2us for other funds you may qualify for.
This guide is for general information only. It is not financial advice. Free debt help is available from charities and public bodies. Always check fees, terms, and eligibility before using a paid service.