Grants for SEND Families in Kent
A guide to grants, charities and funding available to help with costs — equipment, therapies, assessments, and more.
Why Grants Matter
Autism is expensive. Therapies, equipment, adaptations, and specialist support all cost. These grants can help:
- Private assessments (£800-£2,000)
- Therapies (SLT, OT, CBT)
- Equipment (sensory items, specialist furniture)
- Holidays and respite
- Technology for learning
1. Family Fund — The Big One
What they do:
UK's largest provider of grants for families raising disabled children. They've helped over a million families.
What they fund:
- White goods (washing machines, fridges)
- Beds and bedding
- Clothing (if child soils frequently)
- Toys and play equipment
- Holidays and breaks
- IT equipment
- Sometimes — assessments and therapies
Eligibility:
- UK resident
- Child aged 0-17
- On income-related benefits OR household income typically under £45,000
How to apply:
- Website: familyfund.org.uk
- Phone: 01904 550 055
- Time: 6-12 weeks for decision
💡 Kent tip
Family Fund Kent also runs additional programmes — check with Kent County Council's Families Hub.
2. SEND Help UK
Specialist charity providing grants for SEND families, with a focus on therapy and assessments.
What they fund:
- Therapy sessions
- Assessments
- Sensory equipment
- Home adaptations
Funding level:
Up to 80% of costs for families with household income under £45,000
How to apply:
- Website: sendhelpuk.com/grants
- Application form online
3. Newlife — Equipment
Specialist equipment grants for disabled children.
What they fund:
- Specialist beds
- Wheelchairs
- Sensory equipment
- Postural support
- Communication aids
How to apply:
- Website: newlifecharity.org.uk
- Phone: 0800 902 0095
4. Disability Grants Directory
A searchable database of grants from hundreds of charities.
- Website: autism.org.uk/directory
- Search by condition, location, need
- Free to use
5. Other Charities
Sandcastle Trust
For families affected by autism. Grants for equipment, therapies, activities.
Website: sandcastletrust.org
Contact
Practical support and grants for families with disabled children.
Website: contact.org.uk
Variety Club
Grants for mobility, communication, and sensory equipment.
Website: variety.org.uk
Kent-Specific Support
Kent County Council
- Short Breaks — kent.gov.uk
- Families Hub — support for families in Kent
Autism Kent
- Support groups across Kent
- Information and advice
- Phone: 01227 812220
Kent PACT
Parents and Carers Together — peer support and information.
Application Tips
How to win your application
- Be specific — don't just say "help needed." Say exactly what you need and why
- Show impact — how will this improve your child's life?
- Include quotes — get a quote for the item/therapy
- Don't give up — if refused, try another charity or reapply later
- Ask for help — SENDIASS can help with applications
Frequently Asked Questions
Do grants affect my benefits?
Most grants are not counted as income for means-tested benefits. However, always check the specific grant terms.
Can I apply for multiple grants?
Yes — you can apply to several charities for different things. But don't apply to the same one repeatedly for the same thing if refused.
How long do grants take?
Varies: Family Fund 6-12 weeks, SEND Help UK typically 4-8 weeks. Some faster, some slower.
What if I'm not on benefits?
Many grants are not means-tested, or have higher income thresholds. Try anyway — especially Newlife and Disability Grants.