Getting funding support is generally not easy. It can be especially difficult finding funding support from inside prison, but there is some help available when you know who to contact and how to apply.
If you are looking for money you may wish to turn immediately to the orange Funds section. All the funders in this Directory will accept applications from either individual prisoners, prison leavers or both. They may also accept applications from referral agencies but each fund has restrictions on who can apply.
When viewing the entries showing more detailed descriptions, only apply if:
you are in the right geographical area where the fund operates
you fit the description in ‘Who can apply’ and if in this section it says someone must apply on your behalf, make sure that the right person does
you want something that appears in ‘What can be funded’
Funders are arranged in six sections
Don’t leave your application to the last minute and give yourself plenty of time, especially if the course, equipment and materials are expensive. Finding funding at short notice is extremely difficult, if not almost impossible. So try and make your application at least nine months in advance as some funders take this long to reach their decision.
Keep a copy of your letter and/or your completed form as you may need it later.
Please note the contact details shown in The Hardman Directory are those available to the general public. This may, in some cases, make applying more difficult if you are in prison given the restrictions connected with the use of a phone or the internet. Further information about the various funds may be easier to access on a home leave or when you have been released.
Funders like to receive a progress report from their successful candidates, so do take the time to let them know how the funds were used. Your report may include both successes and setbacks with your course or activity. Maintaining contact like this may place you in a better position to make a second application for money from the same funder at a later date. You will see extracts from letters from successful candidates scattered throughout the Directory.
Organisations receive a large number of requests for money and/or help so do not be too disappointed if you are not successful. Draw up a list of those charities you may be eligible to apply to and approach as many of them as possible. This will give you a better chance of success and a number of smaller grants could add up to the sum you are looking for.