Grant applications must be made by a practitioner (e.g. a social worker, health visitor, support worker) who knows the family and is qualified to assess their needs.
Application deadline: Currently closed. Reopening in November.Please read our full guidance notes before applyingBackground The Bowley Charity was founded in 1951 by the late Mrs Ethel Bowley to support disadvantaged children in south west Herts. Since then referrers have made countless grant applications and many thousands of pounds have been distributed, originally as payments for food and fuel and more recently to support the purchase of white goods, children’s furniture and equipment.
In 2022, the Bowley Charity trustees came to the conclusion that local children and families would be better served if the fund was transferred to Hertfordshire Community Foundation (HCF).
HCF is pleased to fulfil Mrs Bowley’s original wishes by continuing to administer this fund for the benefit of families living in the districts of Watford and Three Rivers.
Who Can Apply?
Applications must be submitted by professionals who support the family and can assess their needs. If approved, the award is given to the supporting professional who must manage and supervise its use.
Eligible professionals include:
- Hertfordshire County Council Social Services
- Children’s Centres
- Housing associations
- Charitable and voluntary groups e.g. debt advice agencies, family support etc
We cannot accept applications directly from individuals or familiesWhat We FundWe offer grants for the following essential items only. Please read our full guidance notes before applying.
- Essential white goods (e.g. cookers, washing machines, fridge freezers)
- Children’s single beds and bedding
- Baby items
- Specialist medical equipment for children
How Much You Can Apply ForTo help us support as many families as possible, grant requests must not exceed £500 in total. We will only fund items up to the maximum award amounts listed below - requests above these limits will not be considered.
Children’s Beds (provided via local supplier):- Single bed with mattress
- Single bed frame or mattress only
- Bunk beds with/without mattresses
- Children's bedding
Note: We cannot fund double beds or beds for parents/carers
White Goods (maximum award including professional installation. If installation is not required, please specify when applying):- Electric cooker: £365
- Fridge freezer (combined): £280
- Washing machine: £300
- Fridge or freezer (separate): £205
- Gas cookers: Contact us before applying
Other white good items are unlikely to be funded
Baby Items:- Pushchair: £100
- Double pushchair: £165
- Cot/Crib with mattress: £175
- Cot/Crib frame only: £100
- Car Seat: £80
Other items:Please contact us before applying for anything other than what is listed above.
What is the Application Process? - Please read our full guidance notes before applying
- Your application will be reviewed by our team
- We’ll contact you by phone or email if we need more information
- Applications are considered by our panel, with decisions made within approximately 1 month
- You’ll receive the outcome by email
If your application is successful:- Beds/Bedding: We’ll email you and our supplier so you can arrange delivery for the family.
- White Goods: You’ll receive an Argos e-voucher to place the order on behalf of the family. You must email us proof of purchase within 1 month.
- Baby Items or Medical Equipment: You’ll receive an Argos or Amazon e-voucher to place the order on behalf of the family. Proof of purchase must be emailed within 1 month.
If your application is unsuccessful:We’ll email you to advise. Please see below for Other Sources of Local Support which may be useful.
How to Apply- Please read our full guidance notes before applying
- This programme is currently closed for applications
- We will contact you with a decision within 1 month