Grants are 'ready and waiting'

A DISABILITY charity is urging families in Dumfries and Galloway with disabled children to apply for a grant. Grants are available from Family Fund’s Scotland support programme, which is targeted to families in receipt of benefits or on a low wage, who have a disabled or seriously ill child under 18 years old. Parents can apply for a wide range of household items such as washing machines, bedding and furniture, as well as digital equipment, sensory toys and clothing for their child, and family breaks or days away for the whole family. Ben Calverley said: “Raising a disabled child comes with many additional costs, and if you are on a low income, this time of year can be particularly difficult. The weather is turning colder, which means higher heating bills, and that often doesn’t leave any money left over to buy a child a winter coat, replace home items if they break, or put something aside to buy a digital device or toy for Christmas. We can help with that. “Since April, we’ve awarded more than 4000 grants to families in Scotland with disabled children - but we have funding for more. Our message to families is “don’t wait for winter!” Applying for a grant now could make the winter months easier, and we’re ready and waiting for applications.” For information about Family Fund’s grant programme in Scotland, and to apply online, visit: www.familyfund.org.uk/scotland