Why was the Helping Hand Fund set up?

Over the years our company has worked with various local authorities worldwide to confirm paternity in child protection cases and similar social cases. However, due to varying legal aid funding, some families or individuals who genuinely need these tests are sometimes left without options. We have encountered numerous such cases when working with social organisations, charities, and immigration services.

 These situations highlight the importance of DNA testing in reaching positive outcomes for all parties involved, even when funds are limited. Therefore, we decided to set up the Helping Hand Fund.

The Commitment: Discounted Tests for Social Cases

In line with our commitment to social responsibility, EasyDNA has pledged to offer several DNA tests at significantly reduced prices solely for “social cases”. This includes situations where:

  • The individuals (or organisation on their behalf) need the test and lack the financial means to order the test;
  • The test result can demonstrably improve the well-being of those involved.

If you believe you qualify for this program, please get in touch with the Helping Hand Fund for further information and guidance.

Applying for the Helping Hand DNA Testing Fund: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Helping Hand Fund exists to help those in genuine need of DNA testing, especially when finances are tight. This guide explains how to apply, whether you need the test yourself or are supporting someone else who does.

Who can apply?

  • Social organisations: Councils, local authorities, Citizen’s Advice Bureaux, immigration advisors, and charitable foundations can apply directly or recommend individuals for the program.
  • Individuals: You can also apply on your own, but demonstrating your need for the test and the positive impact the results will have is crucial. Remember that a referral from a social organisation significantly strengthens your application.

Eligibility:

Applicants typically receive benefits like Income Support, Housing Benefit, Employment Support Allowance, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Pension Credit, or Universal Credit.

How to apply:

Complete the application form accurately and honestly, providing all requested information.

If a social organisation is referring you, they can complete the form on your behalf.

We may request additional evidence to verify your eligibility.

The process:

All applications are carefully considered on a case-by-case basis, and eligibility is determined based on the provided information.

The number of tests we can offer is limited, and we have the discretion to determine the level of support we provide in each case.

Our decision is final.

What happens next?

We’ll contact the social organisation handling your case with the application update and final decision.

If your application is successful, we’ll proceed with the testing process according to our standard procedures.

Important notes:

Social organisations can apply for multiple discounted tests, but the total number available is limited.

We reserve the right to close the program once all tests are allocated or at any point we deem necessary.

We encourage you to apply if you feel you meet the criteria and believe DNA testing can significantly improve your situation.

By applying for, and accepting any discounted testing, the social organisation agrees to the following terms and conditions:

  1. Understand the scope of the Fund and agree to apply only for cases deemed to be social cases based on professional opinion of the applicant’s personal situation.
  2. Submit a fully completed application form from the applicant for each application or completed by the social organisation on the applicant’s behalf.
  3. Please ensure that your application is accompanied by a signed and stamped supporting letter from your social worker, case worker, or lawyer before submission.
  4. They will abide by the terms and conditions that cover our standard testing procedures including, but not limited to, results outcome, consent and liability limitations.
  5. Agree to provide any additional information about the applicant should this be required.
  6. Agree to the payment terms (if relevant) required by the Company.
  7. Agree to inform the Company in the event of any change in the circumstances of the applicant at any stage of the process.
  8. Agree to provide, if requested, a quote or testimonial the company can utilise on its own marketing material in the event the client is content with the service provided and has no reservations about making a statement accordingly.
  9. Accept to promote the Helping Hand Fund to its clients or associated organisations by word of mouth or through any media such as notice boards, newsletters or websites where it deems appropriate.

Contact us at info@gtldna.co.uk to apply!