The HWS Family Hardship Fund exists to provide a practical bridge for families who find themselves unable to afford an essential item or service. We believe that everyone deserves access to the basics, a working cooker, warm clothing, a bed to sleep in, regardless of their financial circumstances.
We work differently to many charities. We don’t provide cash, and we don’t offer loans. Instead, we purchase essential goods and services directly from local businesses on behalf of the families we support. This means the help is targeted, immediate and dignified.
There is nothing to repay. No interest. No conditions. Just practical support, delivered with care.
Our story & mission
About the HWS Family
Hardship Fund
We are a registered charity providing practical, dignified support to families in genuine financial hardship across Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Shropshire.
Our mission
Practical help, delivered with dignity
Our values
Integrity
We are honest about what we can and cannot do. No false promises, no hidden conditions, no judgement.
Community
We buy from local suppliers, keeping money in the communities we serve and supporting the local economy.
Inclusivity
We are open to everyone in genuine need across the three counties, regardless of background or circumstance.
Respect
We treat every person we help with dignity. There is no shame in asking for support, and we never make people feel there is.
How we work
Grants, not loans
Unlike many hardship funds, we provide grants — not loans. Here is what that means in practice.
We pay suppliers directly
We never give cash. We contact the local supplier on your behalf and arrange payment directly, ensuring the money goes exactly where it’s needed.
Nothing to repay
Our grants are exactly that — grants. There are no repayments, no interest and no conditions attached to the support we provide.
Local suppliers, local impact
By working with local businesses in the three counties, our grants support the broader community — not just the individual family.
Governance
How we are run
The HWS Family Hardship Fund is governed by a volunteer board of trustees drawn from across the three counties. Our trustees bring a range of professional backgrounds including social care, finance, law and community development.
We are a registered charity and publish annual reports and accounts in line with our obligations to the Charity Commission. Our finances are independently examined each year.
Day-to-day operations are managed by a small team of staff and volunteers who assess applications, liaise with suppliers and maintain relationships with referring organisations.
We are a registered charity and publish annual reports and accounts in line with our obligations to the Charity Commission. Our finances are independently examined each year.
Day-to-day operations are managed by a small team of staff and volunteers who assess applications, liaise with suppliers and maintain relationships with referring organisations.
Registered charity
“Practical help, delivered with dignity, across the three counties.”
We are governed by a volunteer board of trustees and are fully accountable to the Charity Commission for England and Wales.
Annual reports: Our annual reports and accounts are available on request. Please contact us if you would like a copy.
Our area
Herefordshire, Worcestershire & Shropshire
We exist to serve the communities of the three counties. If you live or work outside this area and are looking for similar support, we are happy to help point you in the right direction.
Herefordshire
Including Hereford city and all surrounding rural areas, market towns and villages within the county boundary.
Worcestershire
Including Worcester, Malvern, Kidderminster, Redditch, Bromsgrove and all surrounding areas within the county.
Shropshire
Including Shrewsbury, Ludlow, Oswestry, Telford and Wrekin, and all surrounding rural communities.
Ready to take the next step?
We’re here to help
Whether you need support yourself, want to refer a client, or simply want to find out more, we welcome your enquiry.
