Funding support for adaptive equipment: Charities and grants you should know about

Across the UK, there are several charities, trusts, and organisations that provide financial help for young people and their families and carers who need it – including Whizz Kidz!

We get lots of requests from young people, parents and carers on additional financial support they may be entitled to. To help, we’ve created this guide with details of other charities that may be able to support you. 

(Things can change really quickly when it comes to grants and funding. While we do everything we can to keep this as accurate as possible, it may not always be possible. Please check the charity website for the most up-to-date information on funding and applications.)

What can funding cover?

Different organisations fund different things and we can’t provide an exhaustive list. We’re going to assume that you’ve spoken with your local wheelchair service and healthcare provider first. The charities in this guide will expect you to have done this and will ask for evidence if and when you submit an application.

Funding can come in several ways:

• Grants for individuals: financial awards to purchase specific equipment.
• Equipment loan schemes: short or long-term access to essential items.
• Part-funding: where the charity contributes alongside family or statutory sources.
• Emergency funding: for urgent situations or breakdown replacements.

Each charity will have its own criteria and application process. Some support children and families while others focus on adults or people with specific medical conditions.

You’ll need to read up and check what they fund and won’t fund. Be aware that things can change quickly. Even if there’s no funding available at the moment, there may be in the future.

Charities to explore

Here are some of the UK’s most active organisations supporting individuals with mobility or adaptive equipment needs:

• At Whizz Kidz we provide equipment and confidence building activities for young wheelchair users. You can find more information about what we offer on our homepage.
• Family Fund: provides grants to families raising disabled or seriously ill children
• The Boparan Charitable Trust: helps children with disabilities or life-limiting conditions by funding equipment or therapy
• Newlife Charity for Disabled Children: offers grants and emergency equipment loans
• Motability Foundation: supports disabled people with grants for vehicles, driving lessons and adaptations
• Independence at Home: provides small grants for essential equipment and home adaptations

We know that finding funding can be a struggle. Visit Turn2us where you can search for grants by location and need.

Can I apply to more than one charity for support?

Yes, you can often apply to more than one charity. If you’re applying to more than one, always mention this on any application.

If you receive the funding and support you need, you can – and should – withdraw applications at other charities.

How to make a strong application

Access to funding is competitive and charities have to make tough decisions. You’ll have to write the application yourself. It’s important you make a compelling case for the support that you and your family may need.

Here are some tips to help you create the strongest application:

• Ensure you capture all the daily needs of the wheelchair user and the implications if you don’t receive the support you’re asking for.
• Take the time to write a clear, accurate and compelling short personal statement about your circumstances and how the equipment will help.
• Get help from a professional, like a school SEND specialist, to write the application (or check it).
• Always include a supporting letter from a professional, like an occupational therapist or GP confirming your need.
• If you’re requesting a piece of equipment, like a wheelchair, include an up-to-date quote (or website link) to show the price and availability. 

Are there any other ways to access funding?

Charities are a great place to start accessing support. You may find that local councils can provide support (like welfare funds or equipment recycling schemes). You can find information on their websites.  

We recommend speaking with your local Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Information Advice and Support Service (SENDIASS) to see what funds may be available.