Apply for a grant Donate
Home > Grants > What happens after I’ve applied? > How to use my grant > How to use a games, books and music grant 

How to use a games, books and music grant 

Find out everything you need to know about our games, books and music grants.

A blind girl with long curly hair playing the piano

Our games, books and music grants are awarded as a retailer card. The card will be sent to you in the post, separately from your grant award letter. You will need to activate your card before being able to use it in shops.

You have six months from receiving your card to use it, and you’ll be able to use the card to buy games, books or music for your child.

To activate your card:

  • call the activation service on 0344 7709 015 (please make sure you have your activation PIN before you call) – available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
  • select option one on your telephone keypad, and then option one again to activate the card 
  • enter the 19-digit card number, found on the front of your retailer card
  • enter your activation PIN code. This is the four-digit number you will find in the ‘award method’ section on your award letter. Please note this is not your Family Fund number.

When your card is activated, please keep it in a safe place. You can use it in the following stores: Argos, HMV, Waterstones, The Works, The Entertainer and FOPP.

You can also use your card online, at argos.co.uk. When you get to the payment page, input the long card number, expiry date and card security code in the ‘Argos and flexecash gift card’ section.

Finally, whether you’re shopping in-store or online, please keep your receipts for 12 months from the date you purchased your items. We may write and ask you for them.

Frequently asked questions

You must use your award within six months from the date of your Family Fund award letter. Any unused funds will be credited back to Family Fund.

Please call the card phone line on 0344 7709 015 as you will not be able to check your card balance in store.

You must call the card phone line immediately on 0344 7709 015. Please follow the instructions.

Yes. If the total bill is more than the amount on your card you will need to pay the difference before your card is swiped and must keep all receipts as usual.

No. You can buy items when you need them, the whole amount does not need to be spent in one transaction. However, the total amount of the grant must be used within six months of the date on your grant award letter.

You will find the PIN in your award letter and only need it to activate the card, not each time you make a purchase. If you have lost your award letter, please contact us to request a new copy.

No. Only the main carer, or the child or young person receiving the grant, is permitted to use it. Any misuse of the card may result in it being withdrawn.

The card can only be used at Argos, HMV, Waterstones, The Works, The Entertainer and FOPP.

Page last reviewed:

Financial support

Life can cost a lot more when you are a family raising a disabled, or seriously ill, child. We provide a range of information and services to help you manage your money as a carer.
Family Fund financial support