Financial Help
Are you facing a financial challenge?
We all need help sometimes when experiencing financial difficulties and challenges. RBF are here to provide financial support to improve circumstances and aid wellbeing.
Our non-repayable grants can help you get back on track if you are struggling with unexpected or unaffordable costs.
Our funds, listed below, have different criteria and cover a range of issues.
It takes around 2 weeks for applications to be reviewed.
Please note that calls may be recorded to support your application. For more information regarding how we handle your data please read our privacy policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does connecting a bank account through Lightning Reach mean?
Once you log in, you will be guided through a simple process to connect your account. You will provide the email addresses of the applicant and any spouse/partner in their household as they will need to do this too. This gives Railway Benefit Fund access to view the last 3 months of your statements only (from the date that you connected). We cannot view any other time period, or make any changes to your account.
Is it safe to connect my bank account through Lightning Reach?
What if I don’t connect my bank account through Lightning Reach?
Digital copies of bank statements such as PDFs are accepted, as well as paper copies posted to our office.
Do I need to pay my grant back?
No, our grants are non-repayable.
Do I need to be a member to receive help?
No, our charity is not membership-based, our support is for anyone working or has worked in rail in need of some support.
Will my employer or colleagues know I’ve received help from you?
No, our services are strictly confidential. For more information on our data and confidentiality practices please see our privacy policy.
Are you the same as the Transport Benevolent Fund?
No, the Transport Benevolent Fund is a membership organisation which offers many benefits to its members. For more information please visit their website https://tbf.org.uk/.
Do I need to currently work in rail to qualify for support?
While our grant schemes have different criteria, our charity supports current, former, and retired railway workers and their dependents.
I’m a widow of a railway worker. Would I qualify for support?
While our grant schemes have different criteria, our charity supports widows and spouses of railway workers.
I am an apprentice. Would I qualify?
While our grant schemes have different criteria, we can support apprentices who are in need. Please contact the office for more information.
Who is considered a railway worker?
Anyone who supports the work of passengers and goods on UK mainline railways. This can include train drivers, station staff, freight, cleaners, contractors, and the supply chain. Please contact the office if you are unsure.
What does connecting a bank account through Lightning Reach mean?
Once you log in, you will be guided through a simple process to connect your account. You will provide the email addresses of the applicant and any spouse/partner in their household as they will need to do this too. This gives Railway Benefit Fund access to view the last 3 months of your statements only (from the date that you connected). We cannot view any other time period, or make any changes to your account.
Is it safe to connect my bank account through Lightning Reach?
What if I don’t connect my bank account through Lightning Reach?
Digital copies of bank statements such as PDFs are accepted, as well as paper copies posted to our office.
Do I need to pay my grant back?
No, our grants are non-repayable.
Do I need to be a member to receive help?
No, our charity is not membership-based, our support is for anyone working or has worked in rail in need of some support.
Will my employer or colleagues know I’ve received help from you?
No, our services are strictly confidential. For more information on our data and confidentiality practices please see our privacy policy.
Are you the same as the Transport Benevolent Fund?
No, the Transport Benevolent Fund is a membership organisation which offers many benefits to its members. For more information please visit their website https://tbf.org.uk/.
Do I need to currently work in rail to qualify for support?
While our grant schemes have different criteria, our charity supports current, former, and retired railway workers and their dependents.
I’m a widow of a railway worker. Would I qualify for support?
While our grant schemes have different criteria, our charity supports widows and spouses of railway workers.
I am an apprentice. Would I qualify?
While our grant schemes have different criteria, we can support apprentices who are in need. Please contact the office for more information.
Who is considered a railway worker?
Anyone who supports the work of passengers and goods on UK mainline railways. This can include train drivers, station staff, freight, cleaners, contractors, and the supply chain. Please contact the office if you are unsure.
