Catch22 works with the most vulnerable people and families in the UK. We are on the frontline, providing support to people who need it most.
By contributing to our Cost of Living Fund, your money will go straight to people who need it most: families in poverty; people with experience of homelessness; victims of crime, sexual assault or exploitation; people with mental health challenges or illness; those struggling with substance misuse; a challenging family life; being a carer; physical illness or disability; poor educational attainment, and beyond.
We will use funds to buy food, basic necessities, home equipment, children’s toys, white goods and digital equipment. These basic things can be the difference in a family’s life.
The cost of living squeeze is going to disproportionately hit marginalised and low-income groups hardest.
- In January 2022, 66% of people in the UK saw their cost of living increase.
- 62% of households have experienced higher energy bills this winter and prices are set to rise further.
- The Trussel Trust gave out 5,100 food parcels to UK households every day in the last 6 months, an 11% increase from pre-pandemic.
- 1 in 3 people in the UK’s lowest earning households have less than £250 in liquid savings.
Catch22 has distributed immediate funds with great effect during COVID-19.
Last year, Catch22 touched the lives of over 160,000 people. In 2020-21, we distributed over £68,000 to individuals and families, like Anita, across England. Funds were used to:
- Relieve financial pressure: “£80 Tesco voucher given to ease the added financial pressure on Dad having the 4 children at home.”
- Improve digital access: “Laptop purchased for Ellie*, who has been doing her homework on her mobile phone.”
- Offer wellbeing support: “Siobhan* was unable to keep herself safe due to self-harming. Art therapy and pamper basket purchased to help her regain control.”
Anita’s Story
Anita* and her two young children lived in an extremely violent household that had become too dangerous for them to live in safely.
During the festive period last year, Anita and her children fled their family home and moved into safe accommodation. Anita couldn’t take any belongings with her as she had to leave at such short notice. Her two children didn’t understand; they thought that Father Christmas had taken their toys away.
Catch22 were able to support Anita by purchasing new toys for her children and gave her vouchers to get herself new clothes. Through the support of professionals around them, Anita’s children can stay with her and aren’t at risk of being taken into care.
*names changed for confidentiality purposes