Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I get an application form?

We now have an online application system which can be accessed here.

Alternatively you can request a PDF application via email: cscapplications@firstgroup.com.

Or by post: Charity and Sponsorship Committee, FirstGroup, 395 King Street, Aberdeen, AB24 5RP

Can I save my online application and complete it at a later date?

Yes, once you have completed the registration page you will receive an email with a unique ID and password which allows you to start the application questions. You can save your partially completed application form and recover it at a time that suits you. The Committee will not review your application until it has been fully completed and submitted.

How do I recover my application?

When you start your application you are sent a "secret". When you wish to recover your application, go to the application form page, click on apply now, then click on recover. You will be asked to provide your email address and secret.

What if I don't receive my secret?

Your secret should be automatically sent to you. If you have not received it, check your junk mail folder. If you still have not received your secret, email cscapplications@firstgroup.com and an email will be sent back to you detailing your secret.

I'm trying to save my application but nothing happens

There are a few things you can do here. Firstly check that your web browser is up-to-date - updating your browser will probably solve most problems. Secondly, in order that you don't lose any information, make sure you save a copy in Word. Thirdly, try again a few hours later, there may be an intermittent problem with the server that is causing the problems. Finally, if none of this works, contact cscapplications@firstgroup.com for advice.

Why do I need my payroll number or the payroll number of the supporting First employee?

We request the payroll number as a security check to confirm either the applicant's employment status or the supporting First employee's status. The Committee can only accept applications and letters of support from current First employees. Payroll numbers can be found on the employee's payslip.

An error message keeps appearing when I try to submit my application

We want you to provide us with the right information about your cause. We therefore ask a number of compulsory questions each marked with a red asterisk. If you fail to complete a compulsory question you will be unable to submit your form and the incomplete question will be highlighted for you.

How much can I apply for?

We can only accept applications up to the value of £2,500. Our Charity and Sponsorship newsletters will give you an idea of the amounts we typically donate; these can be found on our website.

I am seeking sponsorship for an event and would be grateful for any donation therefore do I need to request an exact amount?

Applications will only be accepted if you declare the amount you are requesting. As the Committee is unable to fund every application it receives, it may, on occasion, award a smaller grant than requested, on the basis that the grant will still enable the core aspect of the intended project to go ahead.

I am not a registered charity can I still apply?

Yes, individuals and community groups are welcome to apply to the Committee. However, please note we do not pay into personal bank accounts, so you must have a bank account set up in the name of your group before you apply. All applications must fall within our charitable criteria which include:

• young people
• health
• the environment

I would like to get in kind support in the form of travel passes or tickets; can I apply through the Committee?

We receive many requests for donations of tickets or vehicles from local charities, community groups and not-for-profit organisations. Our Charity and Sponsorship Committee reviews such applications, but the applicant must present a quote from a First operating company to show the value of the ticket or vehicle hire. Applications will only be accepted if you declare the amount you are requesting.

I do not know a First employee and therefore cannot obtain a letter of support, can I still apply?

We aim to support causes that are important to our employees. Therefore, we ask that all external applications are supported by a First employee. With over 30,000 employees in the UK it is likely that a member or supporter of your organisation will have a connection to a First employee. Unfortunately we cannot accept external applications unless they are supported in the form of a letter or email from a First employee. ('External' indicates an individual not employed by First.)

How do I submit my application?

Online applications will be submitted automatically. PDF applications can be emailed or posted using the details below:

• Email: cscapplications@firstgroup.com
• Post: Charity and Sponsorship Committee, FirstGroup, 395 King Street, Aberdeen, AB24 5RP

Are there any deadlines for applications?

There are no deadlines for applications. The Committee accepts applications throughout the year. Please note applications can take between 6-10 weeks to process, therefore please ensure your application is submitted well in advance of your required financial commitment or activity date.

My application was unsuccessful, can I reapply?

You can apply up to four times in one calendar year. If you have previously received funding from the Committee, you can reapply 12 months after your last successful application.

Why was my application unsuccessful and can I receive feedback?

The Committee receives a large volume of applications each month and unfortunately we are unable to support all causes. Any decision made by the Committee with regard to applications is final and we will not, under any circumstances, enter into any discussion with an application regarding any such decision.