Crusaid Hardship Fund

The Crusaid Hardship Fund in Scotland provides financial support to people with HIV who are living in Scotland and are experiencing financial hardship. It is not able to fill gaps in statutory funding or provide non-essential items but aims to assist people in achieving a decent quality of life.

The fund makes grants which can be used to purchase essential items from food to bedding or a fridge to store medication at the correct temperature. It can also assist with contributions to pay for respite care.

Applications
Applications to the Fund must be made by a recognised referring agent such as a social worker or HIV nurse. Each application is means tested so every award must be supported by relevant documentation to ensure that grants are made to those who are genuinely in greatest need. Although we are not able to deal with applications directly, we can advise you on how to apply through another agency - contact the Grants Administrator on 0131 558 1425 or Email: crusaid@waverleycare.org.

There is no citizenship or permanent residency requirement so the following are all eligible to apply if they have HIV and are experiencing financial hardship.

• UK nationals,
• foreign nationals,
• people seeking asylum or with student/work visas including overstayers,
• residents of prisons or detention centres.
  

Since its inception the Crusaid Hardship Fund in Scotland has supported one in two people living with HIV in Scotland. The fund is financed by Crusaid UK, Elton John AIDS Foundation and the M.A.C AIDS Fund.

For more information visit the Crusaid website.

Information and forms for the use of referring agents can be downloaded below:
Application 2009/10
Mandate 2009/10
General Information & Guidance Notes 2009/10