Financial support & information
As our name suggests, the Chemists’ Community Fund can help you cover unexpected costs and provide grants if you are facing a difficult financial situation. The team assesses each case individually, and tailor the kind of support we offer based on your unique circumstances.
How we can support you
Confidential advice & guidance
Our priority is to make sure that you’re getting the right help. If you’re a Royal Society of Chemistry member, and you’re in financial difficulty, for any reason, talk to us. We’ll then advise you on the best course of action.
Grants & funding
One of these courses of action might be to apply for funding direct from us. The type and amount of funding will be specific to your situation. For example, in the past we’ve provided:
- one-off grants towards redecoration and home adaptations
- regular monthly grants to help with essential livings costs and medical expenses
- one-off grants to support unexpected costs like a fridge freezer or car repair
- support with respite breaks for carers.
Am I eligible for support?
- If you are a current Royal Society of Chemistry member: you must normally have been a member for at least 3 consecutive years (partners, children and other dependants are included)
- If you are a former member: you must normally have resigned (rather than letting your membership lapse) after completing 10 years of membership (partners, children and other dependants are included)
- If you are the partner, child or other dependant of a deceased member: you can apply irrespective of membership length.
There are other criteria (for example, to qualify for a breathing space grant you must be a recent graduate seeking paid employment) but they are often specific to individual situations. The best way to check your eligibility is to get in touch with us.
The application process
If, after speaking to us, you do qualify for funding, we will send you an application form. These forms are assessed by a small team working solely for the Chemists’ Community Fund, and kept strictly confidential.
The application form will ask you for information on your personal and financial circumstances. If you need help completing the application form, please contact us. Once complete, you can submit your application by post or electronically, whichever is easiest.
Our specialist will review your application to ensure that we have all the relevant information for your case, and as a final check for eligibility. Our grants committee will then assess your application and make a decision.
The committee meets four times a year. If the request for financial support is urgent, the committee can sometimes consider requests outside of committee meetings.
Practical support from a volunteer
One role of the Chemists’ Community Fund volunteer network is to help you organise your funding application. Using their knowledge of the process, they can help you present your case effectively and find the information we’ll need to assess your application correctly.