Anyone any good at charity applications?

[r3dh3d]

I'm trying to fill one in for a Safespace Voyager. Which is all very fine and dandy but it's doing my head in.

I'm applying to React. And part of the problem is that though it isn't formally means tested, they ask for your financial details because they "take it into account". Whatever that means. And I'm struggling.

Savings, for instance. Do they mean including ISAs and stuff? Pensions? Or just in a savings account?

I would guess that for savings they mean everything you have in a bank or building society.

If it is not means tested then surely they have no right to ask for your financial details? That is private and personal, is it not? Why not ask what their threshold is and then you can say if you fall within it or not?

I phoned them up earlier and they seemed incredibly vague. With an undertone of: "we're a charity, so above being questioned."

It's hugely annoying. And, as you say, intrusive/personal. You know, I don't actually know what DH earns per month. But I am going to have to find it out, plus council tax and feck knows what else - incomings and outgoings all displayed for their perusal.

If its not means tested they often take in to account income BUT also outgoings, they will also want to be sure they are not donating to anyone that can clearly fund the purchase from huge savings without impacting the family.

Have a good look at their funding criterea, try to use their own "buzz" words but relate it to your application & need.

I have had some f/raising trust fund application success but for organisations rather than an individual.