Families raising a disabled child may be able to access grants towards equipment, household costs, activities or other needs.
Grants are usually separate from state benefits and often have their own eligibility criteria.
What Can Grants Help With?
Depending on the organisation, funding might be available for:
- specialist equipment
- household items
- clothing
- recreational activities
- family breaks
- travel
- technology
- adaptations.
Not every fund supports every type of expense.
Family Fund
Family Fund is one source of grant support for eligible families raising disabled or seriously ill children and young people.
GOV.UK identifies Family Fund as a potential source of assistance for eligible lower-income families, including support towards household products, clothing, toys and family breaks.
Check current eligibility directly before applying.
Local Grants
Local charities, community foundations and disability organisations may offer additional funding.
Schools, social workers, occupational therapists and local support organisations may know about schemes operating in your area.
Applying for a Grant
Read the eligibility criteria before spending time on an application.
You may be asked for:
- evidence of disability
- household financial information
- professional recommendations
- quotations for equipment or services.
Explain clearly how the requested item would benefit your child or family.
Grants and Benefits
A grant is not necessarily a replacement for benefits or statutory services.
If equipment or support should be available through health, education or social care services, investigate those options as well.
Families may be eligible for several different forms of assistance, so it is worth exploring both statutory and charitable support.
Sources and further information
Useful websites
- GOV.UK: Help if you have a disabled child
Information about local support, short breaks and financial help.
- Family Fund: Apply for a grant
Eligibility and application information for Family Fund grants.