Grants for Disabled Children in the UK: What Help Can You Get?

Raising a child with a disability comes with incredible joys, but it also comes with extra costs. From specialist equipment to transport and home adaptations, the expenses can really add up. The good news? There is help out there. Whether you’re looking for funding for vital items or support to make your home safer and more accessible, here are some of the most helpful grants available for families with disabled children in the UK.

Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) – for Home Adaptations

If your child needs changes to your home – think ramps, wider doorways, accessible bathrooms or stairlifts – you may be able to get a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) through your local council.

What can it cover?
Things like:

Installing ramps or a lift
Widening doorways
Adapting a bathroom or bedroom
Improving heating or lighting if it helps with a disability

How much can you get?
Up to £30,000 in England, £36,000 in Wales, and £25,000 in Northern Ireland. Scotland runs a different system through local authorities.

Who’s it for?
The grant is means-tested, but children under 18 are exempt from the financial assessment—so it’s worth applying even if you think you wouldn’t usually qualify!

How to apply:
Start by contacting your local council. They’ll usually arrange an assessment with an occupational therapist.

Apply via your council (gov.uk)

Young girl with Down syndrome sitting at a table in a sunlit room, focused on drawing with an orange pencil, surrounded by colourful pens, modelling clay, and educational toys.

Family Fund – Everyday Essentials & More

Family Fund is one of the UK’s biggest charities offering grants to families raising disabled or seriously ill children under 18. If you’re on a low income, they may be able to help you buy things that make everyday life easier.

What can you apply for?

Tablets or tech for learning and communication
Washing machines and white goods
Clothing and bedding
Sensory toys
Days out or short breaks

Eligibility:

Your child must have a high level of additional support needs.
You must be on a low income (they assess income and benefits).
You need to have been living in the UK for at least 6 months.

How to apply: Visit their site, register, and fill in a detailed online form. You’ll need supporting documents like proof of income and disability.

Apply or learn more at Family Fund

Need help?
Call them on 01904 550 055 (Mon–Fri, 9–5) or email [email protected]

WellChild – Helping Families With At-Home Medical Care

WellChild focuses on helping families with children who need medical care at home. Their WellChild Helping Hands grants can provide practical home improvements for better care, safety, and independence.

What do they fund?

Garden makeovers for safe outdoor play
Accessible bedrooms and therapy spaces
Specialist flooring or safe fencing

Their team also runs projects with volunteers, so in some cases, they can provide labour as well as funding.

Eligibility:

Your child must have a serious illness or complex medical needs.
You must be unable to afford or access the support otherwise.

How to apply:
Applications are made directly via their website, and you’ll need a health professional to help support your application.

Find out more at WellChild

Adult man and young boy wearing glasses sitting on the floor in a bright living room, using sign language while playing with colourful wooden blocks, highlighting inclusive interaction and support for children with disabilities in the UK.

Bonus Tip: Check Local Grants & Charities

Some local councils and regional charities also offer extra funding. Try searching “[your town/county] + disability grants” or contact your local Children with Disabilities Team. You might be surprised what’s out there – from travel passes to carers’ support funds.

Need More Help Navigating the Process?

You’re not alone – applying for grants can feel like a maze. If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few things that can help:

Speak to your child’s school SENCO or social worker – they may know of local funding.
Contact Citizens Advice or a local disability charity for help with forms and appeals.
Join our Purpl Private Facebook Group to chat with other parents, swap advice, and share support.

Smiling woman helping a young girl in a wheelchair build a tall tower using colourful plastic blocks in a classroom setting, showing supportive play and development for disabled children.

In Summary

Grants won’t solve everything, but they can ease the load and make daily life a little more manageable. Whether you need a sensory bed, new flooring, or help getting a wheelchair ramp installed, don’t be afraid to ask the question:

“Is there funding for this?”

Because chances are, there might be.

Got a question about grants or parenting with a disability?
Drop us a message – we’re here to help.
And if you’ve had success with any of these grants, let us know so we can share your story and help even more families!

About the Author

Author image of Sammi, Senior Marketing Manager at Purpl

Sammi is autistic, has ADHD, and lives with POTS. She’s passionate about disability advocacy, accessibility, and creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, and understood. With a sharp sense of humour and a deep love for community, she speaks openly about the realities of being neurodivergent across all of her personal platforms, always aiming to challenge stigma, spark conversations, and remind others they’re not alone.

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