Scottish Welfare Fund
Scottish Welfare Fund (SWF) is a discretionary scheme administered by local authorities. There are different grants you can apply for depending on your circumstances. You do not need to pay these grants back. You can apply for a:
- Crisis Grant – to help with an unexpected emergency like a fire, flood or losing your job
- Community Care Grant – to help you or someone you care for live independently
To apply for a grant from the Scottish Welfare Fund you must be:
- 16 or older
- on a low income or getting certain benefits
You can only apply through your local council.
It is important to remember that the Scottish Welfare Fund is a Budget limited Scheme and grants will only be fulfilled if there is enough money left in the allocated budget. The decision to award, and how much is awarded, will be determined by the Council and is based on the eligibility & qualifying criteria set by the Scottish Government.
Last updated:
05/08/2025
Services
A community care grant aims to help people who may have to go into care unless they get some support to stay at home. Or if they are leaving any form of care and need help to set-up their own home.
Crisis grants aim to help people who are in crisis because of a disaster or an emergency.
Contact information
You can use the information below to get in touch with Scottish Welfare Fund