Local support since 1523
Practical help for local people facing hardship.
Stowmarket Relief Trust supports people in and around Stowmarket who are struggling to afford essential items such as white goods, energy, beds, flooring and education-related needs.
Need support?
I need help
Support is referral-only. If you need help, please speak to Citizens Advice, a food bank, your social worker, health visitor, midwife, tenant support officer or another approved agency.
Find referral options →Referral partners
I want to refer someone
Local agencies and professionals can submit applications on behalf of people who need practical support with essential items.
View referral guidance →Support our work
I want to donate
Your donation helps fund practical support for local people who may otherwise go without basic household essentials.
Donate via JustGiving →The process
How support works
A simple, referral-led process designed to get practical help to local people when it is needed most.
Speak to a referral partner
Individuals usually need to speak to an approved agency or professional who can apply on their behalf.
The application is submitted
The referral partner provides the information needed so the request can be properly reviewed.
The Trust reviews the request
Applications are considered against the Trust’s remit and the practical support being requested.
Support is arranged
If approved, help may be provided towards essential items such as appliances, energy, beds or flooring.
What we help with
Practical support for essential needs
The Trust focuses on real, practical help that can make day-to-day life safer, warmer and more manageable.
White goods
Help towards essential appliances such as cookers, fridges, freezers and washing machines.
Gas and electricity
Support where households are struggling with fuel, warmth or essential energy costs.
Beds and furniture
Practical help towards basic household items that support safety, dignity and wellbeing.
Carpeting and flooring
Assistance where flooring is unsafe, unsuitable or in urgent need of replacement.
Education essentials
Support may be available for books, stationery, uniforms or course-related equipment.
Other essential needs
Referral partners can explain the situation and the Trust will consider requests within its remit.
Donate
Your support can make an immediate difference.
Donations help Stowmarket Relief Trust provide practical, local support for people who are struggling to afford the essentials many of us rely on every day.
Referral only
Are you a referral partner or local agency?
Stowmarket Relief Trust works with local agencies and professionals who understand the circumstances of the person or household needing support. Applications should be made by a recognised referral partner on behalf of the person needing help.
If you are supporting someone who is struggling to afford essential items, please use the appropriate referral route or contact the Trust for guidance.
Local impact
Support that changes everyday lives
Feedback from referral partners shows the difference practical support can make for people who are facing difficult circumstances.
“Thank you so much for helping a young lady I am working with by supplying her with the electric goods she needed. She was particularly thrilled that they were brand new.”Referral partner
“Without their help, our clients would be forced into debt for basic essentials like a cooker or a fridge. It has such a positive impact on people’s lives.”Referral partner
Our history
Supporting Stowmarket for generations
The Trust began in 1523 when Margaret Gowle left her home and land to the church. Over the centuries, income from properties helped feed, clothe and educate local people in need.
Today, the Trust continues that purpose in a modern, practical way, helping people through referrals when times are tough.
Learn more about the Trust →