Emergency Local Assistance
We administer Emergency Local Assistance (ELA) on behalf of Dorset Council, providing essential household items to people who are facing an unexpected or exceptional crisis.
How we may be able to help
We work with professionals who support individuals and households through crisis. Emergency Local Assistance can provide essential household items to help people remain safe, secure and independent during particularly difficult circumstances.
Receiving benefits does not automatically make someone eligible for Emergency Local Assistance. Each application is considered individually based on the person’s circumstances.
What support may be available?
Depending on the person’s circumstances and assessed needs, Emergency Local Assistance may include support with utility costs, and provision of essential household appliances, such as:
- fridge
- cooking appliance
- beds and mattresses
- a washing machine (in specific circumstances)
Who may be eligible?
Emergency Local Assistance is available to Dorset Council residents aged 18 or over who are experiencing an exceptional crisis. This could include someone who is:
- leaving institutional care or temporary accommodation
- fleeing domestic abuse
- recovering from an unforeseen emergency, such as a flood or fire
- experiencing severe financial hardship alongside exceptional circumstances
Making a referral
Applications for Emergency Local Assistance must be made by a professional supporting the individual or household.
As the referring professional, you’ll be asked to provide information about the person’s circumstances so that their eligibility and needs can be considered. Each application is assessed on its individual merits, with the aim of providing appropriate practical support to help someone through an exceptional crisis.
If you’re supporting someone in difficult circumstances but aren’t sure whether Emergency Local Assistance is appropriate, please get in touch with our team. We can talk through the situation with you and, where appropriate, help identify other sources of support.