Potential Funding Options for Families

There are a number of grants, benefits and charitable schemes that may help with equipment, adaptations or short-term costs. This page gathers options families often consider. Eligibility varies — always check the criteria on each organisation’s website.

Quick note: We can’t approve or fast-track applications, but we can help you work out product options and quotes.

Who this can help

  • Families of disabled or seriously ill children and young people
  • Parents/carers looking for funding towards equipment, sensory items or home essentials
  • Professionals (OTs, schools, health teams) supporting families to apply

Quick wins before you apply

  • List the need clearly: what problem will the item solve day-to-day (safety, access, hygiene, learning)?
  • Gather evidence: brief letter or report from a professional (OT/physio/SLT/teacher) supporting the need.
  • Get an itemised quote: use our site’s basket Get a Quote option or email enquiries@fledglings.org.uk.
  • Check timescales: some funds have set windows or termly rounds; others are rolling.
  • Keep copies: save PDFs/screenshots of forms and confirmation emails.

How to apply (typical steps)

  1. Confirm eligibility (location, age, income, diagnosis or needs criteria).
  2. Collect supporting documents (ID, benefit letters, professional letter, quotes).
  3. Submit the online form (or paper if required). Keep your case concise and practical.
  4. Respond promptly to any follow-up questions. If circumstances change, let the funder know.

Grant & benefit links

We keep these links because families tell us they are useful. Each link opens in a new tab.

Cash for Kids

Grant rounds support children from birth up to and including 18 years who are vulnerable, come from disadvantaged backgrounds or are living with an illness or disability. Typical grants are £1,000–£3,000 (larger considered). Find out more & apply.

Turn2us

National charity providing practical help if you’re struggling financially, including a searchable database of funds. Try their Grant Search tool.

The Sunshine Fund (North East England)

Provides specialised equipment to children with disabilities in the North East of England. Apply or learn more.

Wipe Away Those Tears (Essex)

Essex charity granting wishes and supporting seriously ill children. Email gail@wipeawaythosetears.org with background and what help is needed. Visit their website.

Boparan Charitable Trust

Grants for children and young people affected by disability, life-limiting conditions or extreme poverty. Find out more & apply.

Florence Nightingale Aid in Sickness Trust

Considers requests for medical items and services to improve quality of life for people of all ages who are sick, in poor health or disabled. How to apply.

PhysCap (Yorkshire)

Yorkshire charity funding specialised and therapeutic equipment for children with physical and learning disabilities. Application details.

Variety Club

Funds a broad range of specialist equipment including hoists, beds, car seats, sensory and play equipment, assistive and medical technologies. Apply.

NewLife

Supports families with grants for items such as waterproof mattresses and specialist bedding. Apply here.

Family Fund

Wide range of grants for families raising a disabled child. Check their eligibility criteria. The application form can be downloaded here.

Emergency Essentials (Family Fund Services) — applications must be submitted by an authorised referrer (a professional working with the family may already be one or can apply to be one).

What a good supporting letter includes

  • Child’s first name/age and a brief summary of needs (1–2 lines)
  • What problem the requested item will solve (specific scenarios)
  • Why cheaper alternatives won’t meet the need (if relevant)
  • Any safety, hygiene or therapy benefits
  • Professional name, role and contact (school/clinic letterhead if possible)

Need help choosing items or preparing a quote?

Email enquiries@fledglings.org.uk with age, main challenges and any guidance from your clinician or school. We can suggest options within your budget and provide itemised quotes. We accept Purchase Orders. UK delivery from £4.99.

Related

Last reviewed: 14 September 2025