The Access Fund

The Access Fund is a grant scheme. It can help children and young people with educational needs and/or disabilities take part in activities within their community alongside their non-disabled peers. It can help with the cost of taking part in local activities. This may include but is not limited to sporting, performing arts, or recreational activities.

Who is eligible to apply? 

The Access Fund is open to any disabled child or young person living in Newcastle aged 0-25 years (inclusive) and who meets at least one of the following criteria:

• The child or young person is in receipt of Disability Living Allowance Care component (DLA) at any rate

• Young person in receipt of the standard or enhanced rates of Personal Independence Payment Daily Living component

• Child or young person subject to an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)

Children and young people who receive funding from the Children with Disabilities service in the form of a personal budget are unable to apply.

The fund is also open to applications from community organisations that are planning to include children/young people with SEND in their activities and require funding to facilitate this.

How much is the grant? 

The grant offer to individuals will be up to £400 in total. This must be used to help the child or young person access activities.

Individuals can either apply:

• for up to 12 sessions (this can be one repeated activity or a combination of activities providing the total is no greater than 12 sessions)

• or an annual pass that provides unlimited access to an activity such as gym membership.

Only one grant can be awarded in a twelve-month period.

Applications for whole family activities will only be considered in exceptional circumstances.

How can I apply? 

For further information and how to apply, please visit Footsteps: Access Fund

If you have any questions, you can email accessfund@footsteps.me.uk