Home Equipment Grant Fund

New Home Equipment Grant Fund from Muscular Dystrophy UK

Muscular Dystrophy UK has launched a Home Equipment Grant Fund which can cover the cost of buying equipment when statutory services are unable to help. The grants are not means-tested, and cover everything from stairlifts and Closomat toilets to pressure relief cushions and food preparation aids.

People living with muscle wasting and neuromuscular conditions across the UK can now apply for the grants to fund specialist equipment that supports greater independence, comfort and safety at home.

The new Home Equipment Grant Fund is designed to help where statutory services such as the NHS or local authorities are unable to meet an individual’s equipment needs. The charity says access to the right equipment can be life-changing, enabling people to remain independent for longer and reducing the challenges of everyday living.

Wide range of equipment covered

The fund can contribute towards a variety of practical items used in the home, including:

• Profiling beds and riser recliner chairs

• Mobile hoists and transfer aids

• Wheelchair ramps and stairlifts

• Bathroom and toileting equipment

• Positioning and sleep support equipment

• Household aids and basic environmental control systems.

Each category has a maximum funding limit, with grants ranging from around £100 for smaller items such as raised toilet seats up to £4,000 for larger equipment including specialist beds and Closomat toilets. The amount awarded depends on the type of equipment required, available funding and demand for the scheme.

 

Who can apply?

Applications are open to people living anywhere in the UK who have a muscle wasting or neuromuscular condition.

Importantly, the grants are not means tested, so eligibility is not affected by a person’s income or savings. Applicants are encouraged to seek an assessment through the NHS or their local authority first, as some equipment may already be available through statutory services. The charity says its fund is intended to help fill gaps where support cannot be provided or does not fully meet an individual’s needs.

Professional assessment required

Applications must include a quotation from an equipment supplier together with a supporting assessment from an appropriate professional, such as an occupational therapist, physiotherapist, doctor, nurse or specialist equipment adviser.

Successful applicants will receive funding towards the cost of the approved equipment, which they will own. However, recipients remain responsible for any delivery, insurance, maintenance and servicing costs. Equipment that has already been purchased cannot be funded retrospectively.

People who need equipment costing more than the grant limits may also be able to combine support from other charitable funding organisations.

You can find out how to apply for a grant on the MDUK website (external link will open in a new browser tab or window)
 

Article ends – click to return to top or check out related resources below

Further reading and resources

Find out about Disabled Facilities Grants here

Muscular Dystrophy UK and Whizz Kidz funding power chairs for children

Make sure you don’t miss out on news from Independent Living

return to top