Applying for a Ragamuffins Grant
We offer small grants to help children in the Greater London area who face poverty, deprivation, family dysfunction or other types of extreme disadvantage.
We want to identify deserving cases and help them as fast as we can. Our processes are easy. We accept applications at any time, and our committee meets every two months to review them. If a request is particularly urgent, we may be able to respond more quickly.
Our grants are normally in the range of £100 - £500. We are unlikely to approve amounts higher than this. We may offer fixed amounts for certain items. Our general criteria are:
grants must directly benefit children (minors), and are aimed at the most disadvantaged
grants are intended to support education or general wellbeing
no other source of funding or support is available
we will not give grants as a contribution to a much larger fundraising amount
because our funds are limited, we cannot give more than one grant per family
We will consider applications for:
beds and bedclothes
school uniforms or other clothing
books, toys or other items of educational or social value
extracurricular or out-of-school activities which will directly help a child's development, wellbeing or social integration. We like to see evidence of some other contributions, e.g. discounts or free places offered, if possible
We will not fund:
fixed items such as flooring (because the benefit will be lost if a family moves home)
white goods (washing machines, fridges, cookers etc.) or other kitchen or household items
furniture (good second-hand items can be found at local charity and other shops. We also suggest that you search for free or cheap goods via online groups such as Freecycle or Nextdoor).
food, groceries, utility bills, transport costs, medical costs, income support; nor anything that should fall under statutory provision
anything that can be considered a luxury
Important note: we cannot give grants directly to families. If you are a parent in need, please ask a social worker, your child’s teacher or a supporting charity to apply on your behalf.
If you are a teacher, social worker or employee of another organisation working with a child who needs support, simply download our guidance notes and application form. Then send your completed application to our Grants Secretary grants@ragamuffins.org.uk
If you want to check your eligibility or have questions about our grants, please contact us using the form below.