Referral Partners
Refer someone for practical support.
Stowmarket Relief Trust works with local agencies and professionals who can apply on behalf of people facing hardship and in need of essential support.
Who can refer?
For local agencies and support professionals
Referrals should come from organisations or professionals who understand the applicant’s circumstances and can explain why support is needed.
Advice services
Citizens Advice and similar organisations supporting people with financial or practical difficulties.
Local charities
Food banks and community support organisations working directly with local people in hardship.
Support workers
Social workers, family support workers, health visitors, midwives and similar professionals.
Housing teams
Housing officers, tenant support officers and organisations helping people with home or tenancy issues.
Schools and education
Schools, colleges and education providers supporting families with education-related essentials.
Other professionals
Other recognised local professionals may be able to refer where they understand the person’s circumstances.
Application process
How referrals are handled
A clear referral helps the Trust understand the need, review the request and arrange support where possible.
Assess the need
Speak with the person or household and identify the practical support being requested.
Submit the application
Provide clear information about the applicant’s situation and the support required.
Trust review
The Trust considers the request and checks whether it fits within the charity’s remit.
Outcome and support
If approved, the Trust will confirm next steps and arrange practical support where appropriate.
Before applying
Information to include in a referral
The more clearly the situation is explained, the easier it is for the Trust to understand the request and make a decision.
Please include enough detail to explain the practical need, the circumstances behind the application and why support is being requested.
What may be requested
Types of support considered
Every request is reviewed individually, but support usually focuses on practical essentials that improve day-to-day living conditions.
Household essentials
White goods, beds, furniture and similar basic items needed for day-to-day living.
Energy and warmth
Support where a household is struggling with gas, electricity or keeping warm.
Education needs
Books, stationery, uniform or equipment where education-related costs are creating difficulty.