Grants that open up the world for young people with disabilities

We know that a wheelchair has to be appropriate for each child’s needs and environment. This is why we have a flexible funding policy and can part or fully fund a range of manual, powered and sports wheelchairs where appropriate, according to the age and medical condition of each child.

A wheelchair from Variety has given Alfie a lot more freedom. He can now finally use the family’s garden on his own, as he can move around it with ease. 

Mum, Emily
What wheelchairs does Variety fund?

We fund a range of wheelchairs, including:

  • Lightweight manual wheelchairs
  • Powered wheelchairs
  • Sports wheelchairs
  • All-terrain wheelchairs

All wheelchairs Variety provides are bespoke in order to meet the needs of the user. We have no preferred suppliers.

Who can apply?

Anyone is eligible for a wheelchair grant if they meet the following criteria:

  • They’ve not yet reached their 19th birthday
  • They have a recognised disability or long-term health condition that permanently affects their mobility

We accept applications from young people themselves who are over the age of 13.

How do I apply for a grant?

Applying to Variety for help is straightforward. You can submit an application at any time by sending us:

  • Your completed application form which can be downloaded below
  • A letter of support from a relevant healthcare professional (such as an occupational therapist, physiotherapist or doctor)
  • A quote for the equipment you are applying for from the supplier (sometimes we need two quotes but we’ll let you know if that applies to your application)
  • For sports wheelchairs only, a letter of support from your sports club outlining the applicant’s commitment to the sport and their regular participation.

Your application will be passed on to one of our volunteers to be assessed. Each application is assessed on its own merit and will take into account your financial situation, the frequency with which the wheelchair will be used, how any maintenance costs will be covered, how safely the wheelchair will be stored and the impact that it will have on the child or young person. We never make cash grants, but will liaise directly with your supplier to arrange delivery straight to your door.

Get in touch

Got a question? Need to discuss a speculative application? Call our friendly grants team on 0207 428 8100 or email wheelchairs@variety.org.uk

Wheelchair application form (PDF, 175KB)
Wheelchair application guidelines and FAQs (PDF, 97KB)
Wheelchair application for organisations (PDF, 151KB)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wp70DGtk0w&list=PL8rnsY-XtdFagicU8rDI1Wv2ouxFu0p0X&index=32
Charlie’s story