New grant launched to fund sensory and communication equipment for disabled children

Families caring for disabled or seriously ill children can apply for new funding to help pay for sensory toys, specialist equipment and technology to support communication and learning. The short-term Together Programme has been launched by Family Fund in partnership with Variety.

The programme will fund up to 500 grants over the next three months for low-income families raising a disabled child or young person aged 17 or under. Grants can be used for items such as sensory equipment, tablets, accessible technology and specialist bikes, with average awards around £500. There is no fixed maximum amount, though applications typically do not exceed £1,000.

Family support, education and social care professionals are encouraged to help families apply and raise awareness of the scheme locally. Cheryl Ward said the partnership would help families access “the practical support they really need”, while Laurence Guinness described the programme as “desperately needed” for children living with disability and poverty.

Families can apply directly through the Family Fund website here, with applications made online by the main carer and supported by evidence of the child’s needs and household income.