St Martin-in-the-Fields Charity works to end homelessness by providing practical funding, supporting frontline workers and advocating for change.

The Charity has asked The Almshouse Association to share information with our members and frontline contacts on their Voluntary Rapid Fund (VRF), which provides fast emergency grants to help people who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of becoming homeless.

What the VRF can help with

The VRF offers crisis grants of up to £500, which can be used to cover immediate barriers to securing accommodation, including:

  • Rent in advance
  • Deposits
  • Identification documents (ID)
  • Removal costs

If all required information is provided, the charity aims to process and pay grants within 5 working days, helping people access housing quickly.

How to apply

Frontline workers can register for a VRF account using their direct work email address. Once approved, they can submit an application through the charity’s Application Portal.

Step-by-step guidance, including instructions on registering, requesting an account, and applying for grants, is available on the charity’s [Help Page and FAQ section].

Information Webinars

The charity also hosts online Teams webinars to explain the VRF grant offer and answer questions. Upcoming sessions include:

January Session:

  • Tuesday 27 January, 14:00 – 15:15
  • Registration via work email here

February Session:

  • Tuesday 10 February, 14:00 – 15:15
  • Registration via work email here

Registered participants will receive a link to join the webinar at the scheduled time.

Additional Information

Applicants are encouraged to read the Terms & Conditions and Grant Making Policy, which include eligibility criteria, before registering or applying.

The charity also invites local organisations to share information about the VRF, as it may help the people they support access accommodation.

Contact:
VRF Team, St Martin-in-the-Fields Charity
5 St Martin’s Place, London, WC2N 4JH