CVS holds a fund on behalf of Baron Davenport’s charity.

Small grants of about £100 can be given to widows, spinsters or divorcees aged 60 or over, or in cases of special need, to young spinsters or young ladies abandoned by their partners and in reduced financial circumstances. Also the children of these persons who are under 25 years of age may qualify for a one off grant.

Individuals applying should also satisfy the following criteria:

Applicants must live alone apart from school-age children.

Income of the household must be no more than £141 per week excluding attendance Allowance/Disability Living Allowance/Mobility Allowance.

Applicants must have lived in the Midlands area for at least 10 years

Applicants should have savings of no more than £3,500

Applications by letter only to:

Written applications should give details of status, circumstances and financial situation. A letter from a GP, social worker or someone in a similar position should support applications from individuals.

Grants will only be paid to individuals via the person supporting the applications.