National Support

National Support

Below is a list of benefits, discounts, grants and organisations which provide support and advice which is available nationally. Click on one of the categories below to display only results from those categories. Click on the appropriate name to display more information about it. If you're just starting out on your SEND journey I'd recommend you first read "Getting Started". The first few listings down to SENDIAS are the things we would recommend looking at to start with, after that everything else is listed in alphabetical order.

Accessibility Advice / Information / Support Benefits Carers Days Out / Send Activities Education Legal Advice Mobility / Transport Other Respite Care School Holiday / After School Clubs Wish Granting Charities

Disability Living Allowance (DLA)

Benefit for children with higher than average care needs

DLA (Disability Living Allowance) is a benefit available to children under the age of 16. It pays from £24.45 to £156.90 a week and is dependent on the level of help the child needs. It is not means tested, which means you can claim regardless of what your income is. You don't need diagnoses to claim DLA, it's based on your child's needs (but obviously the more evidence you have the more it will help your claim).

DLA is divided into two components, one based on the level of care the child needs (Care Component) and the other on the mobility needs of the child (Mobility Component). The mobility component is only available to children aged 3 and over (ages 3 to 4 can only be awarded high rate mobility). For those aged under 3 with the highest needs, you can apply for a discretionary grant from the Family Fund Motability Scheme to lease a vehicle through the Motability scheme.

https://www.familyfund.org.uk/mobilitysupport

DLA applications can be a long process and people often find that they are rejected or awarded a lower level than they feel they deserve following their initial application. Please see my DLA page for more information, particularly if you're considering trying to get High Rate Mobility under Virtually Unable to Walk (VUW) or Severe Mental Impairment (SMI) criteria.

DLA Website:

https://www.gov.uk/disability-living-allowance-children

Eligibility criteria can be found here:

https://www.gov.uk/disability-living-allowance-children/eligibility

Claims Form and Guidance notes:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/disability-living-allowance-for-children-claim-form

In Scotland you get a Child Disability Payment instead of DLA, but it's much the same thing:

https://www.mygov.scot/child-disability-payment

For more information see:

https://sites.google.com/u/0/d/1dIS3e3C6x_XvcPdFV4yvpftxAtNgWTXQ/p/1ztA0L1yfYwUlawNZiDsSrlsv-MiwBZvc/preview

Carers Allowance

Benefit available for people who care for someone for at least 35 hours a week

Carers allowance is a benefit available to you if you care for someone for at least 35 hours a week (you do not get paid extra if you care for more than one person. If someone else also cares for the same person as you, only one of you can claim Carer’s Allowance). The current rate for Carers Allowance is £69.70 a week. To be eligible for carers allowance you must care for your child for at least 35 hours a week and the child must be in receipt of the middle or highest rate care component of Disability Living Allowance.

You can only claim if your income after Tax, National Insurance and Expenses is £132 a week or less.

For more details see: https://www.gov.uk/carers-allowance

Education, Health & Care Plan (EHCP)

Accessing extra educational support

“An Education, Health and Care plan (“EHC plan”) is a legal document which describes a child or young person’s special educational needs, the support they need, and the outcomes they would like to achieve.” Once in place an EHCP can allow your child to access specialist support, schools and therapy and will put in place the funding for this.

https://www.gov.uk/children-with-special-educational-needs/extra-SEN-help

To set up an EHCP you need to apply for an Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment from your Local Authority. You can make this application yourself or it can be done by your child's school, nursery, doctor, health visitor etc

The process is a lengthy one and you need to convince the local authority in the first place that they actually need to assess your child, so it's important to include as much evidence as possible in your application. There are some really good guides on the internet which I would recommend studying before applying.

https://www.ipsea.org.uk/pages/category/education-health-and-care-plans

https://westsussexsendias.org/education-health-care-plans/

IPSEA have a template letter to use when requesting a needs assessment:

https://www.ipsea.org.uk/model-letters

For more detailed information see: EHCP

Children With Disability Services

Support for you and your child from social servies

You can apply for a needs assessment from your local Children with Disabilities Service (part of the social care department) to see what help they may be able to offer both your child and you as a carer.

To find out how to apply in your local area, enter your details here: https://www.gov.uk/apply-needs-assessment-social-services

After applying they'll normally get back to you within 48hrs, telephoning to discuss why you think you need an assessment and telling you the next steps. If it's determined that you meet the eligibility criteria to have a full assessment, a social worker will arrange to visit you within 10 working days to complete the assessment (it is a requirement that they see your child as part of the assessment). The social worker will meet with you to discuss your situation, what help you would like and what they might be able to provide you. They will discuss things like your child's care needs, the affect this has on your life and the support network you have. They will complete the assessment within 45 days. Their report will be shared with you and any needs Identified will be developed with you into a child and family support plan.

To many the idea of volunteering to be assessed by a social worker might seem strange, but they can be an excellent way of accessing support services and finding out about assistance that you didn't even know was available. (Support available can include support from an allocated social worker or a child & family worker (CFW), direct payments that enable parents and carers to employ a personal assistant (PA) to support their disabled child and allow some breaks from caring, home care support or support to access the community through a specialist care agency, overnight short breaks, specialist assessments and behavioural support through organisations such as Aspens, access to targeted short breaks provisions, including after school clubs, Saturday clubs and holiday play schemes). Also your report from this assessment can be helpful when applying for other support, such as in a DLA application.

Family Fund

Support for low income families raising disabled or seriously ill children

Is a charity that aims to improve the lives of low-income families raising disabled or seriously ill children and young people. They offer grants for short breaks, essential items and services (eg washing machines, toys, furniture, tablets / computers, bedding, clothing etc) and their website also has a series of guides on various types of support that is available.

To be able to apply for a grant you must meet certain criteria, which are basically that your child must have a high level of additional support needs arising from a long term disabling condition or a serious or life limiting illness and you must be in receipt of a means tested benefit (eg Universal Credit).

https://www.familyfund.org.uk/

Sunflower Lanyard Scheme

Bringing awareness to hidden disabilities

The Sunflower Scheme aims to bring awareness and visibility to non-visible disabilities. By wearing a Sunflower Lanyard you can easily make others aware that you are someone you care for has a hidden disability. We have found that this can make you feel much more comfortable when out and about and that you don't feel the constant need to be explaining yourself to others. Some settings will have staff who are specially trained to offer extra assistance to those who need it.

You can also enter your postcode on their website to find local places with people who are trained to recognise and support those wearing a Sunflower Lanyard who have hidden disabilities:

https://hiddendisabilitiesstore.com/find-the-sunflower/

Free Child Care For 2-4 Year Olds

Government scheme to provide free child care for some children

The government provides free childcare for some children aged 2-4 years depending on thier circumstances.

In general, if you (and your partner if you have one) are working, your 3 to 4 year old children are entitled to 30 hours free childcare per week with an approved childcare provider for 38 weeks a year. If you're not working but are in receipt of some benefits such as Incapacity Benefit or Carers Allowance, you may still be entitled to this free childcare. For more details see: https://www.gov.uk/30-hours-free-childcare

2 year olds may also be entitled to free childcare if you receive certain benefits including Income Support, Job Seekers Allowance, Universal Credit, Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit. In addition, 2 year olds are entitled to free childcare if they have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) or receive Disability Living Allowance (DLA).

For more details see: https://www.gov.uk/help-with-childcare-costs/free-childcare-2-year-olds

Free School Transport / Claim Mileage For Taking Your Child To School

If your child has an EHCP or Statement of Special Educational Needs and you live 2 or more miles away from their school if the child is under 8, or 3 or more miles away if your child is 8 or over, you should be entitled to be provided with free transportation for them to and from their school. For more information on eligibility see: https://www.ipsea.org.uk/pages/category/transport-to-school-or-college

https://www.ipsea.org.uk/News/home-to-school-transport-understanding-your-rights

Something that seems to be not so well known is that if you decline this offer and elect to take your child to and from school yourself, you are entitled to claim the return mileage from your house to the school twice a day (some authorities only seem to cover one return journey a day), for every day they have attended at a rate of 25p per mile.

Find details of how to apply through your local council here:

https://www.gov.uk/free-school-transport

https://www.gov.uk/apply-school-transport-for-child-with-special-educational-needs-sen

Motability Scheme

Car leasing scheme for those in receipt of Higher Rate DLA Mobility Element and grants

If you are awarded the High Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance, you have the option of using some or all of it to lease a car through the Motability scheme. The price of a lease is all inclusive (insurance, servicing, maintenance, breakdown cover, tyre replacement and windscreen repairs). If the car you require to meet your needs requires a deposit, they may be able to provide you with a grant to cover this cost depending on your circumstances.

For more details see: https://www.motability.co.uk/

They also offer some charitable grants for Cars and Adaptions, Wheelchair Accessibility, Complex Solutions, Driving Lessons, Additional Support, Access to Work, Stopped Allowances and Special Grants.

For details see: https://www.motability.org.uk/charitable-grants/

Portage

Home visiting educational service for pre-school children with SEND

Portage is a home-visiting educational service for pre-school children with SEND and their families. They offer advice, support and learning through structured play. They're very highly regarded, but as with lots of support services they can often have quite a long waiting list.

https://www.portage.org.uk/about/what-portage

IPSEA (Independent Provider Of Special Education Advice)

Help children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities, and their families and carers, to get the appropriate education, training and support to which they are entitled under the law. As well as having an advice service, their website also offers a number of guides on things like choosing schools, EHCPs, SEN Law, transport to school etc

https://www.ipsea.org.uk/

SENDIAS (SEND Information, Advice and Support)

Advice service focussed on helping SEND children access education and EHCPs

SENDIAS (SEND Information, Advice and Support) Service provides confidential and impartial information, advice and support to children and young people who have special educational needs and/or disabilities and to their parent carers.

They are mainly focussed on accessing education and EHCPs. Each area has it's own individual SENDIAS service, you can search for your local one at the following link:

https://councilfordisabledchildren.org.uk/what-we-do-0/networks/information-advice-and-support-services-network/find-your-local-ias-service

Able Kidz

Grants for specialist equipment and communication equipment

"Able Kidz works to make a disabled child’s educational journey a fulfilling and positive experience. They do this by provision of specialist equipment, computers and software to the children or school and also assist in funding extra tuition needs of a child.

We aim to make a variety of learning aids accessible to children with disabilities all over the UK, both on an individual basis and for use in schools and playgroups etc."

http://ablekidz.org/

Access Card

Proof of disability card to help access discounts

Described as a “Disability Passport”, Access Cards are widely recognised across the UK and can serve as proof of disability when requesting concessionary ticket prices. They cost £15 for a card that is valid for 3 years. You can apply for one through their website, you'll need to provide a description of your needs and also some documented proof of these.

www.accesscard.org.uk/

ADHD Foundation

Information and support for numerous neurodiverse conditions

"The ADHD Foundation is the UK’s leading neurodiversity charity, offering a strength-based, lifespan service for the 1 in 5 of us who live with ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Dyscalculia and Tourette’s syndrome." Through their Neurodiversity Clinic based in Liverpool they offer ADHD Assessments for anyone aged 6 or over. Their Resource Hub has lots of information relating to Autism, ADHD, Tourettes, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia and Dyscalculia.

https://www.adhdfoundation.org.uk/

ADHD UK

Proof of disability card to help access discounts

"ADHD UK has been created by people with ADHD for people with ADHD." Their website has a wealth of information about ADHD.

https://adhduk.co.uk/

AFK Charity

Specialist mobility equipment suppliers

Celebrating their 30th birthday in 2022, AFK supply specialist mobility equipment that isn't available on the NHS for children and young people up to their 25 birthday. Equipment they can supply includes wheelchairs, buggies, walkers, mobile hoists, power packs (to add power to a manual wheelchair), car seats and harnesses etc. They can also offer help and support with life and work skills.

https://www.afkcharity.org/

Alex TLC

Leukodystrophy support charity, support grants

Alex TLC support services have a wealth of experience and knowledge to help you through all aspects of living with a leukodystrophy whether you are newly diagnosed or were diagnosed a while ago. They are here to support you, your family and friends, through practical and emotional support as well as accurate medically checked information relating to the many types of leukodystrophy.

They provide means tested grants to help access care, equipment or therapy not available through statutory services, including support during Bone Marrow Transplant or Gene Therapy.

https://www.alextlc.org/

Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life

Grant providing charitable trust

The charity’s ongoing focus is to relieve the needs of children (under 18 year olds) by reason of finance, illness, or other disadvantage, by the provision of grants to improve their conditions of life.

The Charity is particularly interested in applications for grants that will provide children with enjoyment, not just the basic essentials of daily life, though these may also be funded where deemed appropriate.

https://www.thebrightsideoflife.org.uk/

Ambitious About Autism

Autism special schools and information

Ambitious About Autism run a number of specialist schools for Autistic children and also help Autistic people gain work experience and employment. Their website has a large amount of information about Autism.

https://www.ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk/

ARFID Awareness UK

ARFID (eating disorder) support and information

Avoidant / Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is an eating disorder characterised by anything from a limited diet (refusal to to eat certain groups or types of food) to a complete refusal to eat. ARFID Awareness UK are the UK’s only registered charity dedicated to raising awareness and furthering information about Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder.

https://www.arfidawarenessuk.org/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/431391660626919

Aspire

Spinal injury support charity

Aspire is a charity that helps people living with spinal injury. It's website has information about spinal injury and details the different ways that the charity can support you.

https://www.aspire.org.uk/

AT Society

Ataxia-telangiectasia support charity, grants

The A-T Society supports supports people living with the disabling and life-limiting condition ataxia-telangiectasia and funds research to find a cure. Their website has a wide range of support and resources available on it.

The A-T Society can offer financial help to people with A-T through their Support Grants System. Here are some examples of the things we can help with, however there may be other items or areas where we can help. Please note that the equipment or service has to be for the benefit of the person who has A-T.

IT Equipment

Wheelchairs

Bathroom Equipment

Specialist Furniture

Hoists

Holidays

Respite Care

Trikes

Scooters

Motability Car (deposit)

Transport Costs

Courses

Therapy equipment

Stairlift

https://atsociety.org.uk/

Ataxia

Ataxia support charity

Ataxia provides information and support for people living with Ataxia (an umbrella term for a group of neurological disorders that affect balance, coordination and speech).

There are also a number of grants available that are listed on their website

https://www.ataxia.org.uk/

Barnardo's

Support charity for vulnerable children and their families / carers

Is a national charity that provides support and advice to vulnerable children, their families and carers. Their website has a search function to find support in your local area. They also offer short breaks (respite care) for children with disabilities.

https://www.barnardos.org.uk/

Barretstown

Free holiday camps for children living with a serious illness and their families

Offers free, specially designed camps and programmes for children and their families living with a serious illness – supported behind the scenes by 24 hour on site medical and nursing care. Based in County Kildare, Ireland, transport to the camps is also free.

https://www.barretstown.org/

Batten Disease Family Association

Battens disease support charity

The BDFA provides advice and support for families of those suffering with Battens Disease. They also provide a family grant scheme.

http://www.bdfa-uk.org.uk/

BBC Children In Need Emergency Essentials Program

Provides essential items for families in need

The BBC Children in Need Emergency Essentials Programme supports children and young people who are facing exceptionally difficult circumstances, and is delivered by Family Fund Business Services. The programme provides items that meet a child’s most basic needs such as a bed to sleep in, a cooker to provide a hot meal and other items or services critical to a child’s wellbeing.

They can provide of fund critical items such as:

Cookers.

Furniture.

Kitchen equipment and small appliances.

Children’s beds and bedding (including cots).

Washing machines and tumble dryers.

Fridges, freezers and fridge-freezers.

Baby equipment.

Clothing.

https://www.familyfundservices.co.uk/emergency-essentials/

Beacon House

Therapeutic service for those who have experienced trauma (based West Sussex)

Beacon House is a specialist, innovative and creative therapeutic service for young people, families and adults. With a special interest in working with individuals of all ages who have experienced trauma and loss, they are passionate about offering safe and effective therapies in a way that enables people to re-build their lives following stress and adversity.

https://beaconhouse.org.uk/

Birkdale Trust

Provides grants for hearing impaired young people

Birkdale Trust For The Hearing Impaired makes grants to young people up to an age in their mid-twenties who are resident in the UK. This funding provides support in a variety of ways and to organisations linked to deaf young people.

http://www.grantsforthedeaf.co.uk/

Blue Badge Parking In Europe

Provides grants for hearing impaired young people

If you're thinking of using your Blue Badge in Europe, this site provides am explanation sheet to help local authorities recognise your badge, translated into many languages, to display next to your blue badge:

https://www.icarhireinsurance.com/disabled-driving-in-europe

Boparan Charitable Trust

Fund specialist equipment not available on the NHS and treatments such as speech and language / behavioural therapy

The Boparan Charitable Trust is a charity created with the sole aim of improving young peoples’ lives. They provide funding to children with disabilities, life-limiting illnesses and those who are in extreme poverty across the UK. Their grants can fund specialist equipment such as wheelchairs, trikes, sensory toys not available on the NHS, and treatments such as a Speech & Language Therapy and Behavioural Therapy.

https://www.theboparancharitabletrust.com/

British Wireless For The Blind Fund

Provides grants for the hearing impaired

Launched in 1928 they have been providing radios to visually impaired people for over 90 years. They are able to supply a loan of one their specialist radios for free to those who meet their criteria.

They also have a shop where their specialist radios are available to purchase. They've also developed their own specialist apps for smart devices.

https://blind.org.uk/

Brittle Bone Society

Brittle bone support charity

The Brittle Bone Society is the sole organisation set up to address the needs of people born with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI). The charity supports people in the UK and Republic of Ireland.

Their website provides a wide range of resources and information.

They also provide grants to pay towards wheelchairs, specialised equipment, holidays and respite care.

https://www.brittlebone.org/

Bruce Wake Charitable Trust

Sporting / leisure grants for wheelchair users

Provides grants for sporting or leisure activities for physically disabled wheelchair users.

https://brucewaketrust.co.uk/

Buttercup Children's Trust

Support charity for seriously ill children and their families

Buttercup Children’s Trust helps seriously ill children and their families to overcome the pressures of dealing with disabilities and life hindering illnesses.

They can provide assistance with such things as vital medical equipment, vital sensory equipment in addition to travel costs and respite to name a few.

They also provide support and advice.

http://www.buttercupchildrenstrust.org.uk/

Buttle UK - Chances For Children

Support grants

"What we do is very simple: pay for things that we would want all children and young people to have but their parent or carers cannot otherwise afford."

They provide support designed to improve emotional, educational and social outcomes through our Chances for Children grants and, for some children whose home environment is disruptive and chaotic, grants which allow them to go to boarding school.

They can offer grants upto £2000 and items they can fund include:

- Items and activities to support learning and development such as laptops, books, 12 months of broadband, educational toys, tuition, etc.

- Clothing and school uniforms

- Social, sporting and leisure activities

- Family activities

- Items for children/young people’s bedrooms

- Other household items that are not available from sources such as Emergency Essentials or Local Authority welfare schemes, etc.

https://buttleuk.org/

Carefree

Free short breaks for full time carers

Carefree is a charity that provides free short breaks to full time carers (30+ hours a week, aged 18+) by using 1 or 2 night stays that are donated by their hospitality partners (they're working on making longer breaks available).

There is no charge for the accommodation, but you are responsible for all other costs (transport, food, travel insurance etc.) and there’s a £25 admin fee to help with the cost of operating the charity. You must be able to arrange for interim care for while you are away.

https://carefreespace.org/

Carers First

Advice and support for carers

Carers First works directly with and for carers to provide personalised information and advice. Making it easier for those caring for someone else to continue living their lives to the fullest.

https://www.carersfirst.org.uk/

Carers Trust

Carers support charity

Carers Trust is a major charity for, with and about carers. They work to improve support, services and recognition for anyone living with the challenges of caring, unpaid, for a family member or friend who is ill, frail, disabled or has mental health or addiction problems.

They have a national network of local support partners which you can search on their website to find appropriate support in your area.

If you are a carer you may be able to receive a Carers Fund grant as part of a package of support from your local Carers Trust Network Partner.

https://carers.org/

Carers UK

Carers support charity

Carers UK is an organisation that provides information, advice and support to unpaid carers. Most counties or regions have their own specific carers support organisations and Carers UK has a search function on their website to help you find what support may be available locally to you.

https://www.carersuk.org/

https://www.carersuk.org/help-and-advice/get-support/local-support

Caring Cancer Trust

Support for young people suffering / recovering from cancer

The Caring Cancer Trust provide special Youth2Go Healing Holidays of Adventure and Create2Go Art and Music workshops for Children recovering from Cancer, enabling them to regain their self-confidence and re-ignite their passion for life after the trauma of their illness and lengthy treatment.

They also provide in-patient support at hospital paediatric oncology units in southern England, providing comforts and amenities for children suffering from Cancer, and support for their caring parents and siblings.

https://stopcancer.health/

Carter Trust

Grants for disabled people in financial need

Founded in 1993, The Andrew and Catherine Carter Trust is a UK based charity which provides grants for special equipment or adaptation of housing or transport to meet the needs of disabled people who are in financial need.

https://cartertrust.org.uk/

Cash For Kids

Grants for young people living with a disability or illness

Cash For Kids grant rounds support children from birth up to and including 18 years of age who are vulnerable, come from disadvantaged backgrounds or are living with an illness or disability. The value of a grant is typically from £1,000 to £3,000 but they will happily consider applications for larger amounts.

Different areas have different eligibility criteria and grants are dependant on the donations they receive, so the application forms may not always be active for every area.

https://cashforkids.org.uk/

Caudwell Children's Charity

Grants and support for disabled and autistic children

Is a national charity based in Staffordshire “at our state of the art facilities which are dedicated to improving the lives of disabled and autistic children”. They offer Autism Assessments, Occupational Therapy, Equipment, Sensory Packs and various other forms of support. For families with a household income of under £45,000 they can fund up to 80% of the costs for the assistance they provide.

https://www.caudwellchildren.com/

They also provide funding towards life-changing equipment for children with a wide range of disabilities or chronic conditions. They can provide upto 80% of the cost of therapy tricycles, sensory equipment, sports equipment, car sears, car harnesses, buggies and powered wheelchairs.

https://www.caudwellchildren.com/services/equipment/

CEA Cinema Card

Free carers cinema tickets

Enables a disabled cinema guest to receive a complimentary ticket for someone to go with them when they visit a participating cinema.

https://www.ceacard.co.uk/

Cerebra

Support charity for children with brain conditions

Cerebra is the national charity helping children with brain conditions and their families discover a better life together. They provide a Book and Toy Library, Sleep Advice Service, Legal Advice Service and they publish a series of guides and factsheets to help families of children with brain conditions with common problems they may be facing.

The Cerebra Innovation Centre (CIC) designs and builds innovative, bespoke products to help disabled children discover and engage with the world around them. If you have a problem you need addressing or an idea for something that you think could help your child, please get in touch.

https://cerebra.org.uk/

Cerebral Palsy Cymru

Support charity those with Cerebral Palsy in Wales

Cerebral Palsy Cymru's website has information about Cerebral Palsy and the funded therapy services that they offer.

https://www.cerebralpalsycymru.org/

Cerebral Palsy Scotland

Support charity those with Cerebral Palsy in Scotland

Cerebral Palsy Scotland offer support and therapy groups for both children and adults with cerebral palsy. They are able to offer some funding towards therapy for some individuals.

Their website also has a wealth of information on it and some great disability directories.

https://cerebralpalsyscotland.org.uk/

Charlie & Carter Foundation

Financial support for children with life limiting conditions

The Charlie & Carter Foundation (CCF) provides financial support to parents of seriously ill children with life limiting conditions that require 24 hour nursing care or specialist nursing facilities. Their services will directly pay your mortgage, rent, gas, electricity, provide food vouchers, petrol card, basically help with your day to day living expenses. The foundation will cover a period of three months within their one payment budget

https://thecharlieandcarterfoundation.co.uk/

Cheyne Charity

Specialist equipment grants for young people with Cerebral Palsy

Cheyne Charity is dedicated to helping children and young people with Cerebral Palsy. They offer grants for specialist equipment.

https://cheynecharity.org/

Chicken Pox Vaccine

This won't be for everyone, but we were concerned that our son wouldn't cope well if he were to get Chicken Pox, so we decided to get him vaccinated. The vaccination isn't available on the NHS, but you can get it through Boots and other private healthcare providers. It isn't that cheap, Boots currently charge £140 for a full vaccination, but we decided it was worth paying, compared to if we and our son were to have to deal with him having Chicken Pox instead.

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/chickenpox-vaccine/

https://www.boots.com/services/health-pharmacy-advice/vaccinations/chickenpox-vaccination-service

Child Brain Injury Trust

Charity offering support to children living with an acquired brain injury

The Child Brain Injury Trust is a charity that offers support (including legal) and advice to children living with an acquired brain injury, as well as supporting their carers and siblings.

They also operate a small grants program that awards up to £125 towards a social activity for siblings and children with a ABI.

https://childbraininjurytrust.org.uk/

Children Today

Specialist equipment for young people with disabilities

Founded in 1994, Children Today was created to help children and young people with disabilities up to the age of 25 across the UK by providing specialised equipment to help offer an improved quality of life.

https://www.childrentoday.org.uk/

Children's Heart Foundation

Support charity for children with heart defects

The Children’s Heart Federation helps children with heart defects and their families by:

Providing direct support

- Information and advice through our information sheets and information line 0300 561 0065

- Resources for children with heart conditions such as Molly’s Dollies a rag doll with surgical scars and Rosie goes red, Violet goes blue a story book to help small children and their siblings understand heart conditions

- Providing medical equipment for children with heart conditions such as INR machines

- The Heart2Heart newsletter containing information and news for the cardiac community

- Pulse Parents – a private Facebook forum where parents can discuss topics relating to children with heart conditions

- Coffee and questions – online events on a variety of subjects relevant to families with children with heart conditions, each event has a speaker and the opportunity to ask questions from the audience

https://chfed.org.uk/

Children's Trust

Support charity for children with acquired brain injury

Is a national charity that provides help and support for children with acquired brain injury (ie that they were not born with). At their headquarters in Surrey they have a special school, residential rehabilitation centre and they offer affected children short breaks and camps and clubs during the school holidays.

https://www.thechildrenstrust.org.uk/

CHIPS

Specialised powered wheelchair grants

CHIPS was founded on behalf of the UK Gaming industry, in order to raise funds to purchase specialised powered wheelchairs for youngsters with varying disabilities.

They provide wheelchairs for children who would otherwise have no way of getting around on their own. CHIPS funds the wheelchairs that the NHS cannot or will not provide and that the parents cannot afford to buy.

https://www.chipscharity.org/

ClearVision Books

Lending service of braille and tactile books

ClearVision is a postal lending library of children’s books in print, braille and tactile books, designed to be shared by visually impaired, sighted children and adults. They lend books all across the UK and Ireland.

http://www.clearvisionproject.org/

CMV Action UK

Charity supporting families affected by congenital CMV (Cytomegalovirus)

CMV, or Cytomegalovirus, is a common virus that can infect people of all ages. Once CMV is in a person’s body, it stays there for life. Most healthy adults and children who become infected will have no signs or symptoms and no long term effects from CMV. It can however pose serious risks to unborn babies if a pregnant woman catches it for the first time. Congenital CMV is when a baby has been infected before birth. It is one of the leading causes of hearing loss in children and one of the main causes of childhood disability.

CMV Action is the only UK charity offering advice and support to families affected by congenital CMV (cCMV).

http://cmvaction.org.uk/

Communication Matters

Charity for those who find it difficult to communicate

Communication Matters is a UK-wide charity that supports people of all ages who find it difficult to communicate because they have little or no clear speech. Their website has a wide range of information on Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and they provide some small grants of upto £200 towards communication equipment.

https://www.communicationmatters.org.uk/

Contact

Charity that provides support and advice for families of disabled children

Is a charity that provides support and advice for families of disabled children. Their website is full of useful information and advice and they offer a “listening ear service” for parents and carers who are looking for emotional support. In addition to this they also operate a not for profit shop that sells toys, clothing and sensory products.

https://contact.org.uk/about-contact/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/ContactFamiliesGroup

CP Teens

Social activities for young people with physical disabilities

CP Teens is a charity that organises social activities for young people affected by physical disabilities such as Cerebral Palsy. While it's name suggests it caters for teenagers, it actually assists those from 0 to 25 years, with primary focus being on 8 to 25. They also host several online support communities.

https://www.cpteensuk.org/

Cracker Jacks Children's Trust

Grants for specialist equipment, sensory toys and respite breaks

Offer grants of upto £700 (although their website lists numerous grants that have been made for considerably more than this) for specialist equipment/sensory toys and also for respite breaks.

https://www.crackerjacks.org.uk/what

CS Disabled Holidays

Financial help for holidays for people with severe physical disabilities

CS Disabled Holidays provide financial help for holidays for people living with severe physical disability due to neurological or neuromuscular disorders.

CS Disabled Holidays are willing to fund up to 50% of the costs (to an absolute limit of £2,000) of a holiday of one or two weeks per year. It is anticipated that applicants will have also sought assistance from relevant statutory sources and disease-specific charities for the balance.

https://www.csdisabledholidays.co.uk/

Cystic Fibrosis Trust

Charity supporting those living with Cystic Fibrosis

The Cystic Fibrosis trust supports people living with Cystic Fibrosis. Their website provides information about the condition and information about the support they provide.

They provide a range of welfare grants to help in times of financial need. These include grants for emergencies, transplant assessments, health and wellbeing, holidays and breaks, home care, education and prescription pre-payment certificates.

https://www.cysticfibrosis.org.uk/

Daisy Garland

Charity supporting those with drug resistant epilepsy

The Daisy Garland is a charity working exclusively for children and families whose lives have been touched by drug-resistant epilepsy.

The help they offer is life-changing and wide ranging:

They fund ketogenic dietitians and dietetic support workers.

They give grants for life-saving monitors.

Daisy's Keto Café is an on-line round-the-clock parent support group

They offer vital one-to-one family support

and they award small, one-off grants for special needs equipment

https://www.thedaisygarland.org.uk/

Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity

Supports children with Cerebral Palsy and other motor learning impairments

Is a charity based near Haywards Heath (West Sussex) that supports under 5’s with Cerebral Palsy and other motor learning impairments to realise their full potential. They provide an early intervention service based on the methodology of Conductive Education. Specific services include small group conductive education sessions, music therapy, swimming, sensory sessions and messy play, portage home play, parent support.

https://dvlcc.org.uk/our-services/

Demand

Disability equipment advice, supply and adaptation

As well as advising people with disabilities on the best equipment to suit their needs, Demand also design and manufacture from scratch & modify and enhance people's existing equipment to help it work better for them.

They help people of any age, and with any kind of disability regardless of their financial circumstance.

https://www.demand.org.uk/

DEPHER

Discounted plumbing and heating services for those with disabilities

Disability and Elderly Plumbing and Heating Emergency Repair (DEPHER) provides vulnerable people with access to affordable and vital emergency works. It relies on public donations to cover all labour and materials, provides free services during winter months and discounted during summer.

When funding is available they are able to offer partial or fully discounted costs on emergency works which include the following: Gas leaks, No heating, No hot water

https://www.depher.com/

Designability

Specialist powered wheelchair loan scheme

Designability's main product is the Wizzybug powered indoor / outdoor wheelchair, which is designed for preschool children aged from 14 months. These are available to purchase, but they also operate a free loan scheme for families in the UK. In addition to this their website also features some other products designed to make disabled people's lives easier.

https://designability.org.uk/

Dial-A-Dream

Dream granting charity for children with life limiting / threatening illnesses

Dial-A-Dream aims to make the Dreams of children aged between 3 and 18 years, suffering from a diagnosed life limiting and life threatening illness, become a reality.

https://www.dialadream.org/

Dickie Bird Foundation

Sporting grants for disadvantaged children

The vision of the Foundation is to assist young people under 16 years of age to participate, to the best of their ability, in the sport of their choice irrespective of their social circumstances, culture or ethnicity and to ensure that, in doing so, they improve their chances both inside and outside sport.

Grants of upto £500 can be awarded to disadvantaged children aged under 16 for essential sports equipment and clothing.

https://thedickiebirdfoundation.co.uk/

Disability Grants Website

Grants listing website

Disability Grants is a website that lists a massive number of grants that are available throughout the UK. It also has various other information and resources about various disabilities and a map of holiday caravans that are owned by charities around the UK.

https://www.disability-grants.org/holiday-caravans-for-the-disabled.html

https://www.disability-grants.org/

Disability Rights

Information website

Disability Rights has number of useful factsheets on their website, including a really comprehensive one about employing personal assistants (PAs).

https://www.disabilityrightsuk.org/being-control-getting-personal-assistants-pas

Disability Snowsport UK

Charity providing skiing for those with disabilities

Disability Snowsport UK is a charity that operates ski schools at various locations throughout the UK as well as delivering opportunities to ski and snowboard in a mountain environment worldwide. They have groups around the UK.

https://www.disabilitysnowsport.org.uk/

Disabled Blue Badge

Accessing disabled parking

These are available to more people than you might think. Eligibility is not only for those who cannot walk or have difficulty walking, but you could also be entitled to one should your child have behavioural difficulties due to for example being Autistic or having a developmental delay and being unaware of danger around them, or if they need to be near your vehicle when out due to a health condition. If your child receives the high rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance they'll automatically be entitled to a Blue Badge.

https://www.gov.uk/apply-blue-badge

For general regulations about where you can park using your blue badge see:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-blue-badge-scheme-rights-and-responsibilities-in-england/the-blue-badge-scheme-rights-and-responsibilities-in-england

Blue Badges offer a number of advantages in addition to being able to park in disabled parking bays, you'll be able to park in many paid for car parks for free (always check), not have to pay drop off charges at some airports, some areas you can park on double yellow lines and some ferry companies offer reduced price tickets for blue badge holders.

If you'll be driving in Central London, you can register so you don't have to pay the Congestion Charge (for a one off £10 fee) if you or your child have a Blue Badge.

https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/congestion-charge/discounts-and-exemptions?intcmp=2133

https://www.icarhireinsurance.com/disabled-driving-in-europe

Disabled Facilities Grant

Grant to make adapations to your home to cater for disabilities

If you or your child are disabled and need to make changes to your home you can apply to your council for a disabled facilities grant of upto £30,000. These could be for things such as widening doors or installing ramps, stairlifts, downstairs bathrooms or adapting heating and lighting controls to make them easier to use etc.

If you receive a disabled facilities grant it won't affect any benefits you're on.

https://www.gov.uk/disabled-facilities-grants

Discount For Carers Cashback Card

The “Ode Card” is a prepaid Visa debit card (£2.99 per year) that pays you cashback of upto 15.5% when you use it to shop in store or online. It can be used a wide range of stores, including big supermarkets such as Asda, Sainsbury's and Waitrose. They also have a smatphone app to let you check your card balance and see how much cashback you've earned.

https://discountsforcarers.com/carers-cashback-card

Discounts For Leisure Activities / Attractions

Holiday accommodation for families affected by childhood cancer and other life threatening conditions

Many children's leisure activities and attractions offer reduced or free admission for children with SEND and/or their carers. It's worth checking their websites prior to visiting and always taking a copy of your Carers Allowance and DLA award letters as proof of entitlement.

Down Syndrome Development Trust

Support charity for those affected by Down Syndrome

DSDT's "service includes support to individuals and their families via research based training workshops, outreach, educational enrichment and social groups for children and young people living with Down syndrome".

https://downsyndromedevelopment.org.uk/

Down's Syndrome Association

Support charity for those affected by Down's Syndrome

"We are parents of children and young people with Down syndrome who understand and passionately believe in the power and value of peer and expert support, together with access to contemporary relevant information. Our aim is to reach as many expectant and new parents of a little one with Down syndrome as we can. We are determined to ensure no parent feels alone, so provide a space where parents have someone to turn to, to share any concerns, ask any question and celebrate all the triumphs.

We believe in collaborating with experts in their chosen field to disseminate information, share best practise and try to prevent folk reinventing wheels! By doing so we can empower, enlighten, and educate our parents, the professionals who work with our children and young people, policy makers, Parliamentarians as well as the wider public."

https://downsyndromeuk.co.uk/

Their website also features a list of support groups across the UK:

https://downsyndromeuk.co.uk/support-groups/

Down's Syndrome Research Foundation UK

"We are the UK’s only Down’s syndrome research charity. Our vision is a long, healthy, happy life for people with Down’s syndrome (DS) and their families.

We will bring the best scientific research to the issues affecting our community by:

Funding and promoting ground-breaking medical research;

Improving understanding of Down’s syndrome;

Supporting the human rights of people with Down’s syndrome and their families through advocacy."

https://www.dsrf-uk.org/

Down's Syndrome Scotland

Support Charity for those affected by Down's Syndrome in Scotland

"Down’s Syndrome Scotland is a member-led charity, established in 1982. We are the only charity in Scotland dedicated solely to supporting people with Down’s syndrome and their families and carers.

We provide “all through life” support nationally across Scotland.

We know that every person with Down’s syndrome is a unique individual, full of potential.

We support people with Down’s syndrome to reach their fullest potential by providing a range of services, influencing public policy and by changing attitudes."

https://www.dsscotland.org.uk/

Dravet Syndrome UK

Support Charity for those affected by Dravet Syndrome

Dravet Syndrome UK is dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by Dravet Syndrome (a severe form of Epilepsy) through support, education and medical research.

They can provide grants for seizure monitors and fund an annual weekend away for families at Centre Parcs.

https://www.dravet.org.uk/

Dream Makers

Charity offers holidays for disabled and terminally ill and can provide equipment

Dream Makers is a charity that offers holidays to the disabled, terminally ill, underprivileged and those with special needs.

They have also granted requests for TVs for the visually impaired and tablets to help with special needs learning, wheelchairs and specially adapted bikes etc

https://dreammakerschildrenscharity.com/

Dreamflight

Orlando dream holidays for 8-14 year olds with serious illness or disability

Dreamflight is a UK charity that takes children aged 8-14 (only the children, no parents) with a serious illness or disability on their holiday of a lifetime to Orlando. The experience can be life-changing and gives young people an opportunity to do something that medicine can’t: discover independence, confidence and a new outlook.

https://www.dreamflight.org/

Dreams Come True

Dream granting charity for young people with life limiting or serious illnesses

Dreams Come True is a charity that makes dreams come true for children and young people with life-limiting and serious illnesses living in the UK’s most disadvantaged communities as they believe that every child has the fundamental right to dream.

https://www.dreamscometrue.uk.com/

Education Advocacy

Specialist SEN advocates, publish a map of all non-maintained special schools in the UK

Are specialist SEN advocates (they can help with EHCP applications, reviews and challenges, but they charge for this service - this isn't the reason they're listed as I have no experience of their services, good or bad). On their website they publish a map which shows all the non-maintained special schools in the UK.

https://educationadvocacy.co.uk/sen-schools-map/

ELIFAR

Grants for specialist equipment for for disabled young people

ELIFAR is a small charity which aims to help improve the care, facilities and equipment available to profoundly disabled children and young adults both at home or in residential care. They provide grants to fund the purchase of a wide range of highly specialised equipment, which would otherwise be unavailable because of a lack of funds or because there is no statutory provision, for children and young people up to the age of 28.

https://www.elifarfoundation.org.uk/

Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust

Sailing adventures for young people and their siblings who have been affected by cancer

The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust offers four day sailing adventures for 8-17 and 18-24 year olds who have been treated for cancer and also for their siblings.

https://www.ellenmacarthurcancertrust.org/

Epilepsy Society

Support Charity

"The UK’s only charity transforming the lives of people with epilepsy through world-leading research, advocacy and care". Their website also contains a wealth of information about Epilepsy.

https://epilepsysociety.org.uk/

Everyone Can

Charity that helps those with disabilities with assistive technology

Formerly known as The Aidis Trust, Everyone Can is a charity which has been doing everything it can so that people living with disabilities are able to control their home environment, communicate, and in short, live their lives with as much ease and independence as possible.

They have been able to transform the lives of hundreds of disabled people by matching them with the best-suited and most innovative assistive technology.

They will conduct an assessment, initially over the phone, but then in person if required, to see what assistive technology would be best suited to help improve your life.

After the assessment they will write up a report which documents the specific equipment or software settings that will really make a positive difference to the disabled person’s life. Unfortunately they aren’t able to fund the technology that they suggest but they will do everything they can to help you find funders or suggest funding options.

They also host regular gaming sessions at their headquarters in Manchester and hold free Assistive Technology training workshops.

https://www.everyonecan.org.uk/

Facebook Groups

There are many national and local Facebook groups focussed on SEND children and their carers. Just search for the relevant

condition and add your town or area if you want to find one that's more locally focussed. Facebook is then pretty good at

recommending other relevant groups. They can be a great place to ask questions as there will normally be someone who has already been through what you are going through to offer advice. It can also be really useful to see what other people are saying / asking so you can learn from their experiences and if nothing else, just realise that there are others out there going through similar things to you. They're normally well moderated and are usually private groups, so you'll have to apply to join and have your membership approved by a moderator before being able to access them.

There are also a variety of groups offering support and advice to those applying for DLA (Disability Living Allowance) and EHCPs (Education, Health and Care Plans).

There are also quite a few groups dedicated to special needs equipment and people selling equipment that they no longer need. Some of this equipment can be extremely expensive to buy new and you can save a lot of money when buying second hand. Just search for “Special needs equipment UK” and select the relevant group.

Family Action

Support for the disadvantaged

Family Action transforms lives by providing practical, emotional and financial support to those who are experiencing poverty, disadvantage and social isolation across the country. Their website features a search function to help you find local support services that they offer.

As well as the support services they provide, they also offer a small grants service for Welfare or Educational purposes.

https://www.family-action.org.uk/

Ferry Discounts With Blue Badge

A few ferry companies in the UK offer discounted fares to Blue Badge holders.

Caledonian MacBrayne offer 25% discount off the price of a vehicle ticket on their services to the Scottish Islands:

https://www.calmac.co.uk/article/5315/Do-you-offer-discounts-for-vehicles-of-Blue-Badge-Holders

Hover Travel offer discounted fares for carers, blue badge holders and those in receipt of DLA on their hovercraft services to the Isle of Wight:

https://www.hovertravel.co.uk/concessionary-fares

Red Funnel Ferries offer a 20% discount on their services between Southampton and the Isle of Wight:

https://www.redfunnel.co.uk/en/isle-of-wight-ferry/fares/ferry-passenger-fares-to-southampton/disabled-persons-discount/

Wight Link Ferries offer up to a 25% discount on tickets on their services to and from the Isle of Wight:

https://www.wightlink.co.uk/tickets/accessible-travel#disability-discounts

Find A Voice

Specialist communication equipment for those with severe communication difficulties

Based in Ashford, Kent, Find A Voice is a charity that supports children and adults who have a severe speech, language or communication difficulty, and who may require some form of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) support. This can include signing, symbols or a communication aid. Support is provided in person, by telephone and via their website.

They are able to provide specialist equipment on a no-cost trial basis to build basic communication skills, establish suitability of use and evidence of need

https://www.findavoice.org.uk/

Florence Nightingale Aid In Sickness Trust

Life enhancing grants for the ill, convalescent and disabled

The Florence Nightingale Aid in Sickness Trust provides life enhancing grants to help people of all ages in need who are ill, convalescent or disabled.

These grants are used to provide medical and household aids to alleviate sickness and make a huge difference to people’s ability to manage at home and live as independently as possible.

They do not fund holidays but will provide grants towards organised specialist breaks for children and young adults are considered to give the carer at home a well earned rest.

http://fnaist.org.uk/

Fulfil The Wish

Activities and holidays for young people with lifelong / life limiting conditions

Fulfil the Wish is a registered charity which was founded in 2000 to provide activity and sightseeing holidays for children and young people who have lifelong and life-limiting disabilities.

http://www.fulfilthewish.org/about-us/

Glasspool Charity Trust

Small grants for everyday items

Is a UK wide charity that provides timely, small, one-off grants to individuals, couples and families for everyday items to help them cope when things get tough, equip them to manage better day-to-day and enable them to build a stronger future. Please note they only accept applications from support agencies on behalf of the people they support, not from individuals themselves.

https://www.glasspool.org.uk/

Guide Dogs

Charity that supports blind and partially sighted people, providing guide dogs, support and grants

Founded in 1934, Blind Dogs is a charity that helps blind and partially-sighted people through the provision of guide dogs. They also provide support and advice and can give grants for assistive technology and sensory equipment.

https://www.guidedogs.org.uk/

https://www.guidedogs.org.uk/getting-support/information-and-advice/how-can-technology-help-me/assistive-technology-grants-for-children/

https://www.guidedogs.org.uk/getting-support/information-and-advice/sensory-equipment-grants-for-children/

Hannah's Holiday Home

Free UK holidays for children with cancer or life limiting conditions

Hannah’s Holiday Home offers free holidays to children with cancer and life limiting illnesses at one of their three UK holiday homes.

https://hannahsappeal.org/

Happy Days Children's Charity

Days out and holidays for children with special needs

Helps families and groups by organising and funding special days and holidays such as trips to the seaside, theatres, zoos, museums, outdoor activity centres, sporting events and other educational and cultural activities for children in the UK living with mental, physical and emotional difficulties.

https://www.happydayscharity.org/

Honeypot

Support charity for young carers aged 5-12

Honeypot is charity that provides support for young carers in the 5-12 age range. Their early-intervention, Wrap-Round service is designed to provide relief, protect mental health, and develop social confidence, and delivered in safe, nurturing environment. Each year, they aim to offer places to over 2,500 young carers and vulnerable children across the UK through residential breaks, and a range of digital and face-to-face support services.

As part of their Wrap-Rround service, they also provide small grants to young carers from deprived backgrounds for life’s essential items, such as a new washing machine or school materials.

https://www.honeypot.org.uk/

Hospital Saturday Fund

Can provide help with the purchase of specialist equipment or treatment

The Hospital Saturday Fund is a registered charity whose aims are to provide assistance for registered health charities, hospices, medical organisations and individuals with a medical condition or disability.

For individuals they can provide help with the purchase of specialised equipment or forms of treatment.

https://hospitalsaturdayfund.org/

Household Waste - Larger / Additional Bin

Your local council will often be able to supply you with a larger or additional general waste bin (wheelie bin) if you meet certain criteria. (Our local council's criteria are: Households with five or more permanent residents, households with three or more children in nappies, households with medical needs. Medical needs could be for example having an older child who still wears nappies).

Once we applied our council asked us to prove that we needed the larger bin by leaving all our extra rubbish that would not fit in our regular sized wheelie bin by the side of our bin for two consecutive bin collections. The bin collectors are supposed to assess this, but I would recommend that you take pictures of what you've left out as we initially had our application refused (apparently due to no extra rubbish being left out), but as soon as I provided them with pictures of what we had left out, we had our application approved.

There doesn't seem to be any national guidance on this so Google your local council and apply for larger / additional bin.

You can find your local council here: https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council

Independence At Home

Grants to help improve independence for those with physical or learning disabilities

Independence At Home is a charity founded in 1965, it provides grants to people of all ages who have a physical or learning disability or long term illness and who are in financial need. They may be able to help you if you, or a member of your family, have a long term illness or disability and need financial help towards the cost to improve your independence, comfort, safety and quality of life at home.

http://www.independenceathome.org.uk/

Independent Lives

Supports families that employ personal assistants

Independent Lives is a charity based in West Sussex that supports families that employ Personal Assistants (PAs). They can help with recruiting a PA, managing their payments and they can help to source training for them (such as tube feeding, dealing with epilepsy etc) They also provide some care services and carers respite services locally in West Sussex.

https://www.independentlives.org/

Individual Technology Solutions For Visually Impaired People

Modern communication equipment for the visually impaired

Aim to combat loneliness, isolation and enable Blind and Visually Impaired people on low incomes to live full independent lives using modern communication equipment which they would otherwise not be able to afford.

They provide grants in the form of devices (specially adapted smartphones and tablets) and services (landlines and broadband) for communication equipment for Blind and Vision impaired people who meet their eligibility criteria.

https://itsvip.org/

Janki Saye Foundation

Grants for assistive technology (Communication & reading devices)

The Janki Saye Foundation provides grants to fund assistive technology.

Communication devices make a life changing difference to people who have complex disabilities which impact speech and movement.

Reading devices enhance independence and enrich the lives of people with visual impairments and special needs.

http://www.jankisaye.org/

JubyLee Bakes

Baking company of young people with special needs

JubyLee Bakes is an award winning bakery company run by a group of young people with special needs.

Kids

Charity providing variety of support for disabled young people and their families

KIDS is a national charity, founded in 1970, that provides a wide range of services to disabled children, young people and their families in England. At various locations across England they offer play schemes, after school clubs and respite breaks. In London they operate four adventure playgrounds and they also have an accessible static caravan available for holidays in the Cotsworlds and a beach hut on Hayling Island.

Their website has a variety of information available on it and they also provide mediation services to approximately 50 local authorities.

https://www.kids.org.uk/

Kids Cancer Charity

Support and Orlando holidays for kids and their families dealing with cancer

Kids Cancer Charity offers support and advice to families of children dealing with cancer. They also offer compassionate care breaks at one of their three UK holiday homes, 3 or 4 day breaks at Disneyland Paris and assistance with organising visits to Orlando, USA, including potentially free stays in their luxury Orlando Villa.

https://www.kidscancercharity.org/

Kids In Need

Wish granting charity for the seriously / terminally ill or who have multiple disabilities

Kids In Need are a registered charity which, through donations and fund raising, grants "wishes" to young people aged 3 to 19 who are terminally / seriously ill or who suffer from multiple disabilities.

The "wishes" vary enormously and range from meeting personalities from the world of entertainment and sport; sponsoring holidays; purchasing toys and learning aids that have been adapted to a child's needs; and providing sensory equipment. Some children's wishes are unique such as a ride in a helicopter, an army tank or Ferrari or being a princess for the day.

http://www.kidsinneed.uk.net/

Kids Out

Days out and portable sensory rooms

Kids Out primarily runs the Fun Days scheme, which takes disadvantaged children across the UK on a fun day out and helps them remember what it is like to just be children. Whether a trip to the theatre or a day at a theme park, Fun Days gives them something to look forward to and happy memories they can look back on.

They also offer:

Toy Box delivers a box of brand new toys and games to children who have been rehoused due to domestic violence.

Phyzzpod uses multi-sensory environments to help young children learn and explore creatively. Particularly benefitting children with learning and physical disabilities, each Phyzzpod is a semi-portable sensory learning room that includes coloured lighting, bubble tubes, effects projectors, sound and video projection. By controlling these elements, children engage multiple senses and have more fun learning.

https://www.kidsout.org.uk/

Kids Pass

Discount card for activities and days out

Kids Pass is a membership card that offers discounts to lots of activities and days out for kids, kids eat free offers at restaurants and discounts off some holidays like Haven, Parkdean, Butlin's and Eurocamp. It's not free, you can try it for 30 days for £1 and afer that it's charged at £4.99 a month or £39.99 annually. They offer a smartphone app to help you find things to do in your area.

This could be a useful tool, but bear in mind that lots of places offer free entry for SEND children or their carers, so the discounts offered might not be the cheapest way of doing things. Also please note that these are just general activities for kids and are not specific SEND activities.

https://www.kidspass.co.uk/

LEAP

Help and advice with energy saving home improvements

LEAP offers a free energy and money-saving service for people who are in or at risk of falling into fuel poverty. They can come to your home and fit free LED light bulbs and draught-proofing measures to help cut your energy usage. They can also check that you are on the most cost-effective tariff for you and tell you more about other funding you might be able to access for further energy-saving home improvements. If you would benefit from a free money advice consultation they can also arrange this too.

You are eligible for help from LEAP if you are in receipt of certain benefits, on a low income, have one of a defined list of medical conditions or a physical or sensory disability. It is open to all types of householders, whether you own your own home, are a private renter or a social housing tenant.

LEAP Appliances is an initiative to support fuel poor and vulnerable households through the replacement of old, inefficient fridges, freezers, fridge-freezers, washing machines, and cookers with modern, efficient alternatives.

https://applyforleap.org.uk/

Learning Disability Today

Website with news stories and information on learning disabilities

Their website covers a range of learning disabilities and Autism, with news articles and information.

https://www.learningdisabilitytoday.co.uk/

Lennox Children's Cancer Fund

Charity supports children and their families who are living with cancer

Lennox Children's Cancer fund supports children who are living with cancer and their families. They offer emotional support, practical support and advice on things like financial entitlements and treatment procedures, respite breaks in one of their two holiday homes in the New Forest and financial support through a grant scheme (at the time of writing their grant scheme is currently on hold).

https://www.lennoxccf.org.uk/

Lifeline4Kids

Charity provides specialist equipment for children with disabilities and special needs

Founded in 1961, is a charity with one purpose, to provide equipment to help improve the quality of life for children with disabilities and special needs irrespective of race or creed. For the individual child they provide the full spectrum of specialised equipment such as electric wheelchairs, mobility aids and items including specialised computers and sensory toys. They also help Schools, children's hospices, respite care homes and support centres throughout the UK with a variety of items including playground equipment, soft play and multi-sensory rooms and special beds.

http://www.lifeline4kids.org/

Linking Help With Hope

Grants for those on very low income who have / care for someone with a physical or learning disability

Linking Help With Hope helps those who are living on a very low income, receiving the appropriate welfare benefits and who have exhausted all other funding sources including statutory funding, occupational, local and specialist charities. They help those with physical and diagnosed mental health conditions, learning disabilities, and people caring for an adult or child with a disability.

LHH provides grants of up to £250. These are generally awarded for or towards essential household items and specialist equipment not available from statutory agencies.

LHH also provide ongoing financial assistance. LHH currently supports around 70 ill and less able people with regular financial help.

Depending on available funds, LHH can also make one-off payments for carer’s breaks.

https://lhh.org.uk/

Little Princess Trust

Wigs for young people who have lost their hair through cancer treatment of other conditions

The Little Princess Trust provide real hair wigs, free of charge, to children and young people (both girls and boys) who have lost their own hair through cancer treatment and other conditions.

https://www.littleprincesses.org.uk/

Living Made Easy

Information and advice on aids to daily living

Since 1969 the DLF has been providing free impartial advice and information on solutions, gadgets, adaptations and aids to make life easier. Their website hosts the Largest Aids to Daily Living Database in Europe with information on over 10,000 products with direct links to around 1,000 suppliers. They cover help with Leisure & Play, Communicating, Health & Personal Care and more.

https://livingmadeeasy.org.uk/

Local Offer

Online directory from your local authority of services, support and organisations available locally

Every local council authority in England has a Local Offer website. They are an online directory of services, support and organisations that are available locally to provide support and assistance to children with special educational needs and their carers. Do a Google search for your local council and Local Offer.

You can find your local council here:

https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council

In Scotland, Enquire provides a similar service:

https://enquire.org.uk/service/

Local Parent Carer Forums

Support organisation for carers provided by your Local Authority

Every local authority provides a Parent Carer Forum, they offer information, support and training to parents and carers of children with special educational needs and disabilities.

You can find your local Parent Carer Forum here: https://nnpcf.org.uk/blog/get-involved/find-join-your-local-forum/

Make A Wish

Wish granting charity for children with life limiting conditions

Make a Wish are a charity that creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.

https://www.make-a-wish.org.uk/about-us/what-we-do/

Max Card

Attraction discount card for those with additional needs

The Max Card offers discounted entry to a wide range of attractions nationwide for foster families and families of children with additional needs.

https://mymaxcard.co.uk/

Me And Dee

Sherwood Forest loadge holidays for families of children with life limiting conditions

Me & Dee provide memory holidays to families of children with life limiting conditions at their lodge in Sherwood Forest.

https://www.meanddee.co.uk/

Mencap

Charity that provides support and advice for those with learning disabilities

Is a large national charity that provides a wide range of support and advice for those with learning disabilities.

https://www.mencap.org.uk/

Merlin Attractions

Charity that provides support and advice for those with learning disabilities

Merlin operates some of the UK's largest attractions including Alton Towers, Thorpe Park, Chessington World Of Adventures, Legoland, Sea Life Centres ,Madame Tussauds Warwick Castl, The London Dungeone etc They offer free entry for a carer accompanying a paying disabled visitor and at their theme parks they offer a Ride Access Pass – a virtual queueing system for those that would find queueing difficult, that lets you get straight onto the rides (This has to be applied for at least 7 days in advance).

https://www.merlinannualpass.co.uk/important-information/passholder-help/passholder-accessibility/

The theme parks offer free wheelchair hire (with a refundable deposit) and Legoland also has a sensory room.

They offer various annual passes, which although expensive, work out much better value than buying individual tickets. (After you visit one of their parks, even if using a free ticket from Merlin's Magic Wand, you'll be sent a discount code to reduce the price of an annual pass even more). Once you've purchased an annual pass for your SEND child, you can then apply for a free carer's annual pass (carer's annual passes don't have a name on them, they can be used by one person who is accompanying the child, it does not always have to be the same person).

https://www.merlinentertainments.biz/

Merlin's Magic Wand

One off free entry to a Merlin Attraction

Merlin's Magic Wand is a charity run by Merlin Entertainments, who operate some of the biggest attractions in the UK (Sea Life Centres, Chessington World of Adventures, Alton Towers, Thorpe Park, Legoland etc). As a family of a SEND child you may be able to apply for free entry for your family to one of their attractions.

https://www.merlinsmagicwand.org/apply-for-a-day-out/making-an-application.aspx

Merlin also offer a “Ride Access Pass” which is a virtual queuing system, so that those who would struggle with queues can turn up to a ride at an assigned time and get straight on.

https://www.merlinannualpass.co.uk/important-information/passholder-help/passholder-accessibility/

Meru Disability Equipment

Mobility and other assistive equipment for children

Meru is a charity that designs and builds assistive equipment for people with disabilities (primarily focussed on children). As well as mobility equipment they also do adapted toys, musical equipment, Ipad accessories etc They sell these to fund their main product which is the Bugzi, a powered indoor chair for 1 to 5 year olds. These are available to loan to families for free (as well as for sale).

https://www.merushop.org/

Mobility Trust

Powered wheelchairs and scooters

The Mobility Trust provides powered wheelchairs and scooters for UK residents who have severe disabilities and who cannot obtain such equipment through other means. They aim to reach and help people who, quite simply, have nowhere else to turn. They are the only UK charity that provides such broad support, regardless of age or cause of disabilities.

https://mobilitytrust.org.uk/

Motor Neurone Disease Association

Charity which offers support for those suffering from Motor Neurone Disease

MNDA offers support and advice for those suffering from Motor Neurone Disease. Their website has a search function to help you find locally based support.

https://www.mndassociation.org/

MS Research & Relief Fund

Offers grants to those affected by MS (Multiple Sclerosis)

MS Research and Relief Fund offers grants to people affected by MS (Multiple Sclerosis) for aids, adaptations and services.

https://www.ms-researchandrelief.org/grants/

MS Society

Charity offering support for those with MS (Multiple Sclerosis)

The MS Society provides a wide range of support and advice for people with MS (Multiple Sclerosis). On their website you can search for locally based support and grants.

The MS Society used to provide grants, however these are currently suspended due a lack of income as a result of the COVIS-19 pandemic.

https://www.mssociety.org.uk/

National Autistic Society

Charity offering support, advice, guidance and activities for Autistic people

Established in 1962 the National Autistic Society is the UK's leading charity for people on the autism spectrum and their families. They provide a wide range of support, guidance and advice. Nationally they have 116 branches, each of which provide support, advice and social activities for Autistic people and their families.

https://www.autism.org.uk/

National Benevolent Charity

Charity that provides financial support for those experiencing poverty at a time of crisis

The National Benevolent Charity provides financial support to people experiencing poverty at a time of crisis.

Their average grant is £360 and they will consider applications from those who have a physical or mental health condition or disability or who have young children or are caring for a relative (amongst other criteria).

https://natben.org.uk/

National Deaf Children's Society

Charity that provides financial support for those experiencing poverty at a time of crisis

The National Deaf Children's Society offer a wide range of information and support on their website, a telephone helpline and they organise events for parents, carers, families and young people. They also offer a "Technology Test Drive" which is an opportunity to borrow a wide range of equipment for up to 30 days to see what works for you (there is information about assistive technology on their website).

Inclusion Grants are small grants (up to £150) to help deaf children and young people get involved in events and activities, groups and clubs. Examples include after-school clubs, BSL courses and swimming lessons. They can also be put towards things a young person needs to take part, such as football kit. On some occasions they may be able to reimburse travel costs.

https://www.ndcs.org.uk/

Newlife Charity

UK's largest charitable provider of specialist equipment to disabled children

Primarily offer non-means tested equipment grants or loans. They are the UK's largest charitable provider of specialist equipment to disabled children. They have a national helpline that provides information and support to families and professionals who are caring for terminally ill or disabled children. As well as offering access to larger equipment, they can also provide free 12 week loans of play therapy pods. Each pod contains a range of toys specifically tailored a certain age group and certain needs.

https://newlifecharity.co.uk/

Newman Holiday Trust

Provide UK holidays for children with disabilities who would otherwise not receive a holiday

Provides holidays at various locations across the UK for children with disabilities and special needs aged 4-16, who due to the high level of skilled care they require or their financial circumstances, the children selected for these breaks would not otherwise receive a holiday.

https://www.newmantrust.org/about

Nihal Armstrong Trust

Charity that can provide essential equipment or services for children with Cerebral Palsy

Is a small charity that provides essential pieces of equipment, communication aids or specific services that their local authority does not provide to children with cerebral palsy.

https://www.nihalarmstrongtrust.org.uk/

Ogilvie Charities

Grants to support respite holidays for carers

The Ogilvie Charities make grants to support respite holidays for carers. The primary aim is to give a complete break to a carer while the person cared for is receiving respite care. In exceptional circumstances we may assist where the carer and cared for wish to holiday together, provided they are husband and wife or partners, or an adult child caring for an aged parent or vice versa. If funds allow, consideration may be given to funding family holidays in the UK where one or more family member suffers a severe disability.

Typical grants range from £200 to £300.

https://www.ogilviecharities.org.uk/funding-for-holidays-for-carers/

Oliver Curd Trust

Holiday accommodation for families affected by childhood cancer and other life threatening conditions

Offer holiday accommodation to families affected by childhood cancer and other life threatening and life-limiting conditions, including those experiencing bereavement. They own two mobile homes on holiday parks in East Sussex.

http://www.theolivercurdtrust.org/

PA Pool

Match personal assistants with people who need their services

PA Pool is a website that helps match personal assistants with people who need their services. It also has an FAQ section and some other information for both PAs and employers.

https://papool.co.uk/

PACE (Buckinghamshire)

Charity that provides multi-discipliary therapy for children with neurodisabilities

PACE is a charity that “aims to change the lives of children with neurodisabilities”. They run a therapy centre and special school based in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire and they also provide online resources and support. They provide very reasonably priced multi-disciplinary assessment and therapy (specialising in Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy, Physiotherapy and Conductive Education) and are able to fund this for some.

https://thepacecentre.org/

PDA (Pathalogical Demand Avoidance) Society

Charity offering support, advice, training and resources for those affected by PDA

"PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) is widely understood to be a profile on the autism spectrum, involving the avoidance of everyday demands and the use of ‘social’ strategies as part of this avoidance". The PDA Society offers help and support to those affected by PDA and their website also has a large range of resources / information, a forum and a shop.

https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/

Percy Bilton Charity

Grants for basic household items for hose in financial need who have a disability

The Percy Bilton Charity provides grants to individuals in financial need who have a disability or severe mental health problem for basic household items including white goods, single beds, flooring and clothing vouchers.

Please note they don't accept applications directly from individuals, but Social Workers, Community Psychiatric Nurses and Occupational Therapists within Local Authorities or NHS Trusts can make applications on behalf of their patients.

https://www.percy-bilton-charity.org/

Positive About Down Syndrome

Website where parents share their experiences with Down Syndrome and offer support to others

Is a website by parents of children with Down's Syndrome, for parents and parents to be. Parents share their experiences to provide support for others.

https://positiveaboutdownsyndrome.co.uk/

Promise Dreams

Wish granting charity for seriously or terminally ill children

Promise Dreams is a national charity which aims to make a real difference to children who are seriously or terminally ill. It also makes a difference for their families who are usually massively impacted. Each child and family has a dream and they aim to make it come true.

It could be a holiday to create special/last memories with siblings and family.

Perhaps meeting their celebrity hero or visiting a place which is special to them.

Often it's adapted or essential equipment to improve their quality of life.

In fact, anything that will make life happier and easier for the family in need.

https://www.promisedreams.co.uk/

Radar Key

For accessing disbaled toilets and accessible playground equipment

A radar key is a large skeleton key that opens over 10,000 locked disabled toilets around the UK. They also unlock accessible play equipment in some parks and playgrounds. They're easy to apply for and free, through your local district council.

Or you can buy one from Disability Rights UK:

https://shop.disabilityrightsuk.org/products/radar-key

Changing Places has a directory of toilets for those that require a bench or hoist

https://www.changing-places.org/find

Rainbow Trust

Support for families who have a child with a life-threatening or terminasl illness

Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity supports families who have a child aged 0-18 years with a life-threatening or terminal illness. Each family is paired with an expert Family Support Worker who enables them to make the most of time together, giving them practical and emotional support, whenever they need it, for as long as is needed. Help can include listening to a family’s fears and anxieties, helping to explain illnesses, diagnoses and treatments, keeping a seriously ill child company during hospital stays, driving families to medical appointments to help save time and money, organising fun activities to help sick children, their brothers and sisters and support through bereavement and grief.

https://www.rainbowtrust.org.uk/about/what-we-do

Rays Of Sunshine

Wish granting charity for seriously ill young people

Rays of Sunshine is a charity that brightens the lives of seriously ill young people and their families by granting magical wishes, hosting interactive hospital activity days, granting hospital ward wishes and providing ongoing support within hospitals

https://raysofsunshine.org.uk/

Reach

Support for children living with upper limb differences

Reach provides information, help and support for children living with upper limb differences.

https://reach.org.uk/

Reaching Families

Support for SEND families, publish the excellent "Making Sense Of It All" Guide

Is a West Sussex charity that aims to “empower, inform and support parents and families of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities in West Sussex”. They offer a number of services including benefits advice, fact sheets, training workshops, support groups and a Facebook group.

They also publish the excellent “Making Sense Of It All” which is available to download for free as an ebook via this link:

https://www.reachingfamilies.org.uk/guides.html

It's a lengthy publication, but it covers in detail everything from the first time you think your child may be having difficulties, getting a diagnosis and then finding the help they need, right through to growing up to becoming an adult with special needs.

REACT Charity

Support children with potentially terminal illness living in financially disadvantaged households

React – Rapid Effective Assistance for Children with potentially Terminal illness is a dynamic charity working to improve the quality of life for children with life-limiting illnesses living in financially disadvantaged households throughout the UK.

https://reactcharity.org/

Ready

Sporting and recreatrional grants for young people with disabilities

READY is a charity that provides grants to individual young people and groups of young people with disabilities up to the age of 21. Consideration is given to applications to fund or part fund sports equipment or access to sport and healthy recreational activities for fun and fitness.

https://readycharity.org/

Remap

Custom made equipment to help disabled people live more independent lives

Remap design and custom-make equipment to help disabled people live more independent lives. This includes mobility, help in the home, managing personal care, enjoying sports and hobbies and much more. All their work is carried out and checked by expert engineers, carpenters, technicians and occupational therapists. They provide this help free of charge.

https://www.remap.org.uk/

Respite Association

Respite care and breaks for carers

The Respite Association provide short term assistance by funding appropriately qualified respite care for people with disabilities, long term physical or mental health conditions and those you are terminally ill in order that their regular unpaid carer can be allowed to take a much needed break. Breaks can take the form of anything from enabling attendance at an evening class to a weekend break or longer. They also provide free week long seaside holidays to enable carers to recharge their batteries. In 2021, they purchased their first bricks and mortar respite facility – a purpose built holiday bungalow in Cornwall. They also have a caravan in North Wales.

https://respiteassociation.org/

Riding For The Disabled (RDA)

Horse riding and interaction for disabled and special needs

RDA is an inclusive and diverse organisation. They welcome clients with physical and learning disabilities and autism, and there are no age restrictions. Through their network of member groups, RDA is at work in every corner of the UK, in cities and remote rural areas, bringing the therapy, achievement and fun of horses to as many people as we can.

You can search on their website for a group local to you.

https://www.rda.org.uk/

Round Table Children's Wish

Wish granting charity for children with life threatening illnesses

Round Table Children's Wish is a charity that grants handcrafted wishes for children with life-threatening illnesses. Wishes could be things such as days out, holidays, computers or other specialist equipment.

https://www.rtcw.org/

Royal National Children's Springboard Foundation

Bursaries to attend leading independent schools

The Royal National Children's SpringBoard Foundation (RNCSF) works to bring the transformational opportunities offered by the UK's leading schools to the young people who will benefit from them the most. They allow children who would otherwise be unable, to attend leading independent schools by funding bursaries.

https://www.royalspringboard.org.uk/

Royal National Institute Of Blind People

Support for blind and partially sighted people

RNIB offer help and support for blind and partially sighted people – this can be anything from practical and emotional support, campaigning for change, reading services and the products they offer in their online shop.

They also offer grants to registered blind or partially sighted people for useful technology that can help them live independently.

https://www.rnib.org.uk/information-everyday-living-benefits-and-concessions-grants/grants-rnib

RYA Sailability

Sailing for those with disabilities and special needs

Sailability is a scheme from the RYA (Royal Yachting Association) to make sailing accessible to all, including those with disabilities. They have over 200 locations across the UK, you can search on their website to find one that's local to you.

https://www.rya.org.uk/start-boating/sailability

Sandcastle Trust

Supporting families who have a child with a rare genetic condition

The Sandcastle Trust walks alongside families living with a rare genetic condition to help build lasting positive family memories, strengthen family relationships, improve emotional wellbeing and resilience.

They provide advice and support to families, can fund days out or holidays and can provide a leisure activity or memorable experience within the family home to improve quality of life.

https://sandcastletrust.org/

SCOPE

Charity, originally supporting Cerebral Palsy, now embraces all conditions and impairments

SCOPE is a national disability charity that covers England and Wales. When founded its primary focus was on Cerebral Palsy, but it now embraces all conditions and impairments. Its website hosts an online community and hosts a large amount of information on disability support and they also provide a telephone helpline.

https://www.scope.org.uk/services/

Selective Mutism Information & Research Association

Charity that supports families with selectively mute children

Selective mutism is a communication anxiety disorder. SMIRA is a charity which supports families with selectively mute children and provides information to health and education professionals.

http://www.selectivemutism.org.uk/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/SMIRASelectiveMutism

Sequal Trust

Assistive communication technology for those with communication difficulties

The Sequal Trust is a national fundraising Charity founded in 1969 which is committed to bridging the communication gap for disabled people. By providing suitable assistive technology to people who need it most, we aim to increase the quality of life for those who are non-verbal, have incoherent speech, or who have learning and communication difficulties.

Their website has a wide range of information on communication aids and they are able to fund equipment for some through charitable grants.

https://www.thesequaltrust.org.uk/

Sick Children's Trust

Accommodation for families while their child is in hospital

The Sick Children's Trust has "Homes from Home" at 10 locations across England that give families a free place to stay while their child is in hospital.

https://www.sickchildrenstrust.org/

Singing Hands

Offer various Makaton (signing) classes and workshops for young people

Singing hands offer a variety of Makaton signing courses and workshops, both in person and online, for age ranges from babies to young adults.

https://singinghands.co.uk/

Ski 4 Cancer

Days out and short breaks for families affected by cancer

Ski 4 Cancer is a UK charity that raises funds to provide days out and short breaks for families affected by cancer. This is what we call "respite".

Many of our respite trips and short breaks have an alpine focus. From family days out at UK snow domes to longer holidays in the mountains (summer and winter), we give families something to look forward to during the most difficult of times.

https://www.ski4cancer.org/

SOS Approach To Feeding

Feeding therapy to help those affected by ARFID or picky eating

The SOS (Sequential-Oral-Sensory) Approach To Feeding is regarded by many as the gold standing when it comes to feeding therapy. Their website has a wealth of resources to help those who are dealing with ARFID or Picky Eating, including a questionnaire to help determine if your child is just a picky eater or if there is a more serious issue, a free 2 hour parent workshop video, podcasts and various other resources.

https://sosapproachtofeeding.com/

They also have a worldwide database of all SOS trained therapies that you can use to one locally:

https://sosapproachtofeeding.com/locate-a-therapist

Special Care Dental Service (SCDS)

NHS Dental Service for those with special needs

Is an NHS dental referral service for patients with special needs and those who have difficulty accessing General Dental Services. They also provide dental treatment on a domiciliary basis for housebound people and training in Oral Health Care.

https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/dentists/dental-treatment-for-people-with-special-needs/

Or do a Google search for your local Health Authority and Special Care Dental Services.

Alternatively you can phone 0300 311 2233 to find out what services are available in your local area.

Starlight

Events and breaks for seriously ill children

Starlight is a charity that creates moments of escape from the difficult reality which seriously ill children find themselves.

They hold Starlight Escapes, Days and Breaks throughout the year so children and their families can leave the stresses of hospitals and hospices far behind.

For Children who are in hospital they offer a number of different boxes which contain a variety of distractions such as toys, games, sensory toys, books. They can also provide games consoles and every winter their Panto team travels to hospitals around the country to entertain children and their families.

https://www.starlight.org.uk/

Steve Morgan Foundation

Fund specialist equipment for those who need it and are in financial hardship

The Steve Morgan Foundation is a charity that provides support for people of all ages in financial hardship, who are in need of specialised equipment. They fund specialist equipment:

-Mobility aids, wheelchairs, buggies, hoists, trikes, etc.

-Specialised beds and sleep systems, postural chairs, seating and car seats

-Sensory equipment

-Communication aids, specialised software, specialised alarms

-Medical equipment, support wear

https://stevemorganfoundation.org.uk/how-to-apply/enable-funding/

Strong Bones Children's Charitable Trust

Support, advice and grants for specialist equipment foryoung people affected by bone conditions

Helping families and disabled children with complex needs alongside scoliosis, spina bifida, brittle bone disease or any other bone condition. They provide advice and support. They can also provide grants for young people under the age of 21 for upto 70% of the cost for disability/sensory equipment, manual wheelchairs, supportive seating, acheeva learning stations, portable hoists, educational resource packs, skoog musical interface and communication aid, adapted trikes and hand cycles and smart home technology

https://www.strongbones.org.uk/

Sullivan's Heroes

Charity that helps with home adaptions for disabled children

Sullivan’s Heroes is a charity that provides help with home adaptations for disabled children. It does this by assisting with Fundraising and supplying financial grants towards the costs.

https://www.sullivansheroes.org/

Sunny Days Children's Fund

Charity that helps children with a variety of medical conditions through small grants and UK holidays

Sunny Days Children's Fund is a national registered charity which raises funds to help children under the age of 18 years with a wide range of adverse medical conditions including Leukaemia, Cerebral Palsy, the Deaf and Blind, Terminal Illnesses, and all other life hindering conditions.

They make small grants to enable to help children and their families, whether it be for day trips, medical equipment, respite, hospital travel, or sadly making children's remaining time as comfortable as possible, to include where achievable, children's last wishes.

They also have two holiday homes in Clacton-on-Sea in Essex and offer free week long holidays to those that meet their criteria.

http://www.sunnydaysfund.org.uk/

Super Siblings

Charity which supports young people who have brothers or sisters with additional needs

Super Siblings UK is a charity that supports siblings who have brothers and/or sisters with additional needs. Their aim is to build a strong, kind, caring and supportive community for all families who understand what it’s like to live with, and support a child that has additional needs, as well as extending their support to all parents, grandparents and guardians.

https://www.supersiblings.org/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/Supersiblingsuk

Talisman Charitable Trust

Grants for deserving individuals who are struggling financially

Assist individuals in the UK of small means who the trustees consider to be deserving and may be described as “going short”. From time to time, we also assist other charities with similar objectives to our own.

In general, the relief of poverty includes grants for education, health, housing, disablement or disability.

Please note they do not accept applications for grants directly from individuals, they must be made through an organisation such as a Citizens Advice Bureau or another charity that is aware of their circumstances.

http://www.talismancharity.org/

Together For Short Lives

Charity offering support for children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions

Together for Short Lives is the UK registered charity for children's palliative care. Together for Short Lives’ vision is for children and young people in the UK with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions and their families to have as fulfilling lives as possible, and the best care at the end of life. They offer a support helpline and various support services

https://www.togetherforshortlives.org.uk/

Tourettes Action

Support and advice for those affected by Tourettes Syndrome, are also able to offer some grants

Tourette Syndrome is an inherited, neurological condition, the key features of which are tics, involuntary and uncontrollable sounds and movements. Tourettes Action offers news, information, advice and support.

They are able to award grants of up to £500 for equipment that supports people with TS in their day-to-day life. Some examples of what we have funded in the past include:

Instruments for people whose tics reduce when playing music,

Beds for people whose tics are so violent that normal beds break.

(Please note that we do not provide grants for activities, holidays or to fund treatments).

https://www.tourettes-action.org.uk/

https://www.facebook.com/TourettesAction

Tree Of Hope

Supports families in raising money to pay for specialist care that's not freely available through the NHS

"Tree of Hope is the crowdfunding charity that helps children and young people with a disability or illness by supporting their families to raise the money they need to pay for specialist care that is not freely available through the UK healthcare system."

https://www.treeofhope.org.uk/

Turn2Us

Help those in financial need access benefits and grants

Turn2us is a national charity providing practical help to people who are struggling financially.

They help people in financial need gain access to welfare benefits, charitable grants and other financial help – online, by phone and face to face through their partner organisations.

https://www.turn2us.org.uk/

On their website they have a Grants search section that allows you to search for grants that may be available to you from both local and national organisations:

https://grants-search.turn2us.org.uk/

U Support

Help children with life limiting conditions, disability and disadvantages attend a variety of events

U Support is a charity that allows children/young people with life limiting conditions, disability and disadvantages to attend a variety of events such as football and rugby matches, theatre, pop concerts and other cultural events.

http://www.usupport.org.uk/

Variety Children's Charity

Offer equipment grants, days out and run specialist hospitals

Variety provide practical help that makes an immediate difference to disabled and disadvantaged children and young people under the age of 19, allowing them to live their best lives. They offer equipment grants (including hoists, beds, car seats, sensory and play equipment, assistive and medical technologies) and wheelchairs for children. They also offer Sunshine Coaches to support transport needs of SEND Schools and other non-profit organisations and through Variety Great Days Out they provide day trips for children and young people. In addition to all of this they also run several specialist hospitals.

https://www.variety.org.uk/

Victa

Support young blind and partially sighted people, organise events and provide grants

VICTA is a charity that supports children and young people who are blind or partially sighted. They organise activities designed to instil confidence, promote independence and build social networks to share information and reduce isolation.

They also operate a grant scheme to help with the purchase of equipment to aid people's visual impairment (although at the time of writing the grant scheme is currently suspended).

https://www.victa.org.uk/

Victoria Convalescent Trust

Provide grants for breaks for those in need of convalescence or respite and also specialist equipment

The Victoria Convalescent Trust's main purpose is to make grants to fund or part-fund short breaks for those of any age, living in England and Wales who are in need of convalescence, recuperative care or respite care.

They also have a much smaller fund for the purpose of making grants for essential equipment such as white goods, essential household items, contributions towards mobility aids and other specialist equipment.

http://victoriaconvalescenttrust.org.uk/

Watersure

Can cap your water bill if you need to use large amounts of water for medical reasons

Watersure is a scheme which caps your water bills. To qualify you need to be on a means tested benefit, have a water meter, and need to use a large amount of water either for medical reasons or because you have 3 or more school age children in your household. Different water companies have slightly different eligibility, with some, being on DLA will make you eligible (not Southern water though).

https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/water/water-supply/problems-with-paying-your-water-bill/watersure-scheme-help-with-paying-water-bills/

or do a Google search for Watersure and your water company.

Well Child

Help to make it possible to care for children with complex health needs to be cared for at home

Through a nationwide network of WellChild Nurses, home and garden transformation projects and family information, training and support programmes, WellChild makes it possible for children and young people with complex health needs to be cared for at home instead of hospital, wherever possible.

https://www.wellchild.org.uk/

Wheel Rights Fund

Grants to help those who have an acquired spinal cord injury stay active and take part in sports

The fund is available to anyone who has acquired a spinal cord injury within the past five years. You can apply for any equipment or activities to help you stay active, get active, or help you achieve your sporting potential. Most grants will be made in the range of £100 to £1000.

https://www.wheelpower.org.uk/wheelwrights

When You Wish Upon A Star

Wish granting charity for children with life-threatening or terminal illnesses

When You Wish Upon A Star is a charity that grants wishes (which can take the form of days out, holidays, games consoles / computers etc) to some very brave and courageous children who live with a life threatening or terminal illness who have not previously had a Wish granted by another charity.

https://www.whenyouwishuponastar.org.uk/

Whizz-Kidz

Provide mobility equipment that isn't available of the NHS for young people

Whizz-Kidz provides mobility equipment for children under the age of 18 where the mobility equipment that your child needs is not available/provided by the NHS. Equipment includes manual wheelchairs, powered wheelchairs, sports wheelchairs, trikes and buggies.

They also offer activity programmes, work placements and wheelchair skills training to help you learn new skills and get the most from your wheelchair.

https://www.whizz-kidz.org.uk/

Willow Foundation

Special days and treats for those with liufe limiting conditions aged 16+

For people living with a life-threatening illness, every day should be precious. The pressures of diagnosis, treatment and recovery can have a devastating effect on work and family life.

Willow aims to redress the balance: providing unique and unforgettable moments and experiences tailored to each individual. Every effort is made to always ensure a stress-free, seamless experience, not only meeting but exceeding expectations. Willow currently has two services to support those with life threatening illnesses.

Special Days are tailor-made experiences shared with loved ones to create memories that can be treasured forever. Special Days come in three categories - days out, at home and breaks.

Special Treats are personalised gift boxes filled with luxury items with a different theme for each box, including pampering, food/drink, family fun and many other ways to give a positive boost to those that need it most.

These are available for those aged 16-40, all applications must be made by a medical referrer on behalf of their patient.

https://www.willowfoundation.org.uk/

YMCA

Various support across the UK including nurseries, activity clubs, days out, play schemes etc

Offer a number of disability services across the UK including short break play schemes for children aged 5-11, short break activity youth clubs for young people aged 12-18, rebound therapy, nurseries, preschools and various other activities. To find your local YMCA in England and Wales and see what they offer:

https://www.ymca.org.uk/find-your-local-ymca

In Scotland:

https://www.ymca.scot/find-a-ymca/

And in Ireland / Northern Ireland:

https://www.ymca-ireland.net/locations/

Young Lives vs Cancer

Practical support, advice and grants for young people suffering from cancer

Young Lives vs Cancer's care teams provide day-to-day support for each child, young person and family, from information and guidance to clinical care and specialist play during treatment.

They provide grants and help them get the benefits and other support you’re entitled to. They also help liaise with young people’s employers and sort out housing issues to keep families together, because day-to-day life doesn’t stop when you have cancer.

Their nursing teams can provide personal care and support at home, or arrange for treatment to be given closer to home. They also have Young Lives vs Cancer Homes from Home close to hospitals, where families can stay during treatment for free.

https://www.younglivesvscancer.org.uk/

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse