Greggs Hardship Fund offers help to people struggling for money in the North-East

Not only do Greggs do a great sausage roll – they also do great work supporting local people finding it tough to make ends meet through their hardship fund.

Established in 1993, the Greggs Hardship Fund has given more than £4 million to families needing help in the North-East.

It was created to give a helping hand to people when they need it the most by providing items such as washing machines, fridges, cookers, beds, and small electrical appliances.

It also offers vouchers to cover the cost of uniform for children starting school or clothing for a job interview and will help with money towards food and utilities.

The Greggs’ grant team meets weekly to review applications meaning people who request help get what they need quickly.

Who’s eligible for the Greggs Hardship Fund?

The hardship fund provides help to people living in Northumberland, Tyne & Wear, Durham and Teesside.

The Greggs Hardship Fund prioritises:

• Families over individuals
• The most financially excluded people
• Items that will make the most difference, e.g. a washing machine for a young family, a fridge for a person needing to store insulin, or a cooker for a family fleeing domestic violence

What help does the Greggs Hardship Fund offer?

• Cookers – supplied by East Durham Partnership (excluding installation)
• Washing machines – supplied by East Durham Partnership (excluding installation)
• Fridges/freezers – supplied by East Durham Partnership
• Vented tumble dryers - supplied by East Durham Partnership (excluding installation)
• Beds – supplied by Dreams
• Clothing vouchers - £50 max for an individual and £150 max for a family
• Supermarket vouchers - £50 max for an individual and £100 max for a family
• Utility vouchers - £100 max for prepaid top up meters (excluding British Gas)
• Small kitchen appliance vouchers – to be used for microwaves, air fryers, halogen ovens or slow cookers

It does not fund any of the following:

• Unspecified costs
• Repayment of loans
• Bankruptcy petition fees
• Holidays
• Funeral expenses
• Medical equipment
• Computer equipment

How do you apply?

Applications need to be submitted by a registered charity, housing association or social services on your behalf.

Applications are accessed weekly, and you can expect a response within three weeks of your application.

Applications such be done through this link - Hardship Fund Application | Greggs Foundation

They should be submitted by 4pm Friday to be considered in the following week assessment.

Applications should be for one item only and not multiple items.

If your application is successful, you are only able to reapply for further help the following calendar year.

If your application is unsuccessful, you can apply again – via a charity, housing association or social services - after 12 weeks.