Support for children with complex needs - grants available
Children with special educational needs and disabilities in England have received £37.3 million of direct support in 2020-21, which is expected to help more than 75,000 families in England.
Families with children that have complex needs and disabilities will receive grants for equipment to make their lives easier while implementing social distancing measures, including computers, specialist equipment and educational toys. As part of this £10million has been specifically committed in response to the difficulties presented by the coronavirus pandemic, helping parents to educate and look after disabled or critically ill children who are staying at home more than usual.
The settlement has been provided to Family Fund (external link) who will provide grants of around £400-£500 per family depending on need. The grants will help low-income families with seriously ill or disabled children with the cost of equipment, goods or services - from washing machines and refrigerators to sensory and educational equipment that they might not otherwise be able to afford.
New grant for under 3s with bulky medical equipment who can’t access DLA mobility
Motability have launched a scheme to provide specialist vehicles to children in the UK under the age of three who must always be accompanied by bulky medical equipment and/or need to be near a motor vehicle in case they require treatment for their condition.
All families of children who meet these criteria are eligible; the route for them to apply is through the Family Fund grant scheme (external link). The application process is open now.