Vale of Clwyd MP Dr James Davies is encouraging members of the Armed Forces Community in Denbighshire who are struggling due to cost of living increases to apply for a new Royal British Legion (RBL) grant of up to £2,400
The RBL ‘Everyday Needs Grants’, is designed to assist those who need help in a quick and easy way with essentials such as kitchen appliances, clothes, and energy costs.
Grants are available of up to £2,400 over 12 months, and applicable recipients include serving and ex-serving personnel, and the wider Armed Forces community, including families, dependants, and carers.
Members of the Armed Forces community in receipt of means tested state benefits, such as Universal Credit, pension credit, or income support, should qualify automatically.
Those who don’t receive state benefits may also be eligible, RBL will assess income and expenditure to measure needs.
James said:
“I encourage any member of the Armed Forces Community who is struggling with increasing costs to apply, as flexibility is in place to consider support for those who do not meet the defined means testing.
“The increase in the cost of living presents challenges across households in the UK general population and is not an issue exclusive to veterans and their families. However, some challenges facing the Armed Forces community may compound the impact of cost increases. RBL research has found that households containing working-age adults in the ex-Service community are more than twice as likely to receive a sickness or disability benefit than UK adults. Scope has found that disabled households on average face extra costs of £583 per month. Households containing wounded, injured and sick veterans may also incur unpaid caring responsibilities, for whom employment is more difficult to access.”
James added:
“These grants are available thanks to the generosity of RBL members and supporters. We have recently seen the launch of ‘The Poppy Appeal’, the Royal British Legion’s biggest fundraising campaign which is held every year in November, during the period of Remembrance.
“Whilst I appreciate many are experiencing challenging times themselves, I encourage people to support this fundraiser where they can so that those who have served or are serving our country, and their families, can continue receiving the phenomenal support they currently do from the Royal British Legion.”
To apply for a grant, click on the following link: rbl.org.uk/costofliving
