Grants
Grants may be available for lodge members or widows who are struggling with day to day living expenses, or suffering financial hardship following a personal crisis such as illness or a redundancy. Please contact the Freemasonry Cares team to discuss whether an applicant is likely to qualify for assistance, or talk to your local Provincial Grand Almoner.
It can often be difficult for people to admit that they may be suffering financial hardship. Almoners need to utilise discretion and tact when approaching Lodge members, and of course treat all information in strict confidence. Identifying cases of need is a key part of the Almoner's role, and you should be aware that a member who has missed meetings, or suffered a personal distress may be coming under financial pressure.
Assistance with debt
The central Masonic Charities are unable to provide assistance for debt relief. StepChange, the leading national debt charity, can offer advice and guidance on debt management, and may be an invaluable tool for members dealing with the burden of personal debt. They run a freephone helpline, which you could suggest members make use of.
State benefits
As an Almoner, it is useful to have a solid understanding of the various benefits that your Lodge members may be eligible for. If members are suffering financial difficulties, you will be able to signpost them to the support they are entitled to. The following documents will provide a background to the various benefits available.
Personal Independence Payment factsheet
Entitledto provides independent and reliable tools to help individuals calculate the benefits they may be entitled to. Click here to access the Benefits Calculator.
Individuals will not be eligible for support from the Charities unless they are claiming all Government benefits which they are entitled to.
Updated August 2020