BBC Children in Need – Emergency Essentials Programme

The Emergency Essentials Programme provides critical items that meet the most basic needs of children and young people in the UK experiencing crisis or emergency situations.

Who Can Benefit

Children and young people up to and including age 17 who are:

  • Experiencing a crisis or emergency
  • Living in the UK
  • Living with financial, health, and social difficulties

Limit: One application per household within a 12-month period

Not eligible:

  • Adults aged 18 and over
  • Children not living in the UK
  • Care leavers with access to specific statutory provision
  • Those not meeting the programme’s residence criteria

What They Provide

Critical items including:

  • Cookers, fridges, freezers, and fridge-freezers
  • Washing machines and tumble dryers
  • Kitchen equipment and small appliances
  • Children’s beds, bedding, and cots
  • Furniture
  • Baby equipment
  • Clothing for emergency/crisis situations

How to Apply

Applications cannot be made by parents or carers directly. All applications must be submitted by a registered referral agency supporting the family or young person.

Registered referrers must be part of an organisation capable of:

  • Supporting the family or young person
  • Assessing their needs
  • Administering and supervising the grant

Application Process

  • Applications can be made at any time
  • Processed within 10 working days
  • Programme delivered by Family Fund Business Services

Tiered Strategy

A tiered allocation is in place to ensure programme longevity and reach underrepresented areas. Referrers should check the tiered strategy guidance before applying, as allocations may change throughout the funding year.

For Referrers

Read the Emergency Essentials Referrer Guidelines before applying.

Contact:

For Parents and Carers

If you need support, contact a professional who can submit an application on your behalf. Visit the Family Fund Services website for more information on finding a registered referrer.

Find out more about the Emergency Essentials Programme here

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