Written by Andy Hutton, founder of Theo's Fight ยท Dad to Theo, aged 8, cerebral palsy

โš ๏ธ Please note: Grant eligibility and amounts change regularly. Always verify current criteria directly with each organisation before applying.

If you've been told about one grant as a family of a child with additional needs, it's probably Family Fund. They're the UK's largest grant making charity for families raising disabled or seriously ill children under 18 โ€” and for good reason. They fund a huge range of equipment, breaks, sensory items and more.

Here's what you actually need to know before you apply.

What do they fund?

Family Fund funds things that make a real difference to family life. That includes:

It's broader than most families expect. If it improves quality of life for your child with additional needs or gives your family a much needed break โ€” it's worth asking.

Who can apply?

Families in the UK with a disabled or seriously ill child under 18. Your child must have a significant condition affecting daily life. Family Fund also takes household income into account โ€” they prioritise families on lower incomes or receiving certain benefits, but don't assume you won't qualify without checking.

Always verify current eligibility on their website โ€” familyfund.org.uk โ€” as criteria can change.

Tips for a successful application

๐ŸŽฏ Be specific about what you need and why. Don't just say "washing machine." Say "our son has cerebral palsy and has multiple outfit changes daily due to feeding difficulties and muscle spasms. Our current machine cannot cope with the volume." Paint the picture.
๐Ÿ’™ Link everything back to your child's condition. Every item you apply for should have a clear connection to your child's additional needs. Make that connection explicit โ€” don't assume the assessor will join the dots.
โœ… Be honest about your situation. Family Fund want to help families who need it. Don't undersell how hard things are.
๐Ÿ“‹ Apply for one thing at a time. Family Fund generally fund one grant per family per year. Choose your most urgent need and focus your application there.
๐Ÿ’ช Don't be put off by previous rejection. Circumstances change, funding changes. If you were turned down before, it's worth trying again.
โณ One thing worth knowing: Family Fund is demand led โ€” meaning when funds run out in a given period, applications pause. If you're told they're not currently accepting applications, check back regularly. It's worth persisting.

๐Ÿ” Search for grants now

Tell us about your child in your own words and we'll find grants that match โ€” then help you write the application letter. Free, always.

๐Ÿ’™ Find Matching Grants