Vital support for families as Family Fund grants open for disabled young adults

Family Fund, the UK’s largest charity supporting families on low incomes raising disabled or seriously ill children, is inviting families caring for disabled young adults aged 18 to 24 to apply for its Your Opportunity grant programme.

Designed to address the significant extra costs of caring for a disabled adult living at home, the scheme offers flexible funding for essential items such as white goods, technology, clothing, memberships, and more.

Ben Calverley, Director of Grants Services at Family Fund, said:

“Fifty thousand disabled and seriously ill young adults are living in poverty today, and the extra costs facing disabled households have risen again to an extra £1,010 a month.

“When disabled young people reach 18, they lose vital financial and wider support, including available learning opportunities and local groups and activities.

“Your Opportunity grants are designed to plug some of that gap. They help young people lead fulfilling lives and pursue their goals and interests. If you’re a family struggling to meet high caring costs, please check out our eligibility criteria and see if you can apply to us for a grant today.”

Grants making a difference

In the last year alone, over 1,400 Your Opportunity grants were awarded to disabled young adults across the UK. These included:

• Laptops and tablets to help develop digital skills, support further education and online hobbies, and build independence

• Transport support for appointments and specialist clubs or activities

• Essential white goods like fridge freezers and washing machines to support daily living and autonomy

Charlotte’s story: Independence through technology

One young recipient, 25-year-old Charlotte from Sheffield, has Down syndrome and anxiety. A Your Opportunity grant enabled her to receive a new laptop.

Her mother Tania explained:

“Charlotte uses the laptop for reading, she has drawing programmes on there as she’s very creative, and to receive her work payslips for her new job via email.

“She also finds activities on it which she wants to try and plays music if she’s anxious. It has made her more independent really.

“Everyone spends on their children but I don’t think people realise it never ends when they have a disability. We have shoes that are worn out, things get broken faster. Charlotte has a little job at £11 an hour for a few hours a week, so the onus is on you really. We are getting older and our savings go as you aren’t earning as much.”

Survey confirms positive impact

A recent Family Fund survey from 2024/25 confirmed the widespread impact of the grants:

• 100% of families reported that the disabled or seriously ill young person benefitted from their Your Opportunity grant

• 84% said the programme helped manage their child’s care and support needs more effectively

• 84% also said it improved their financial situation

Backed by broadcasters and philanthropy

The Your Opportunity programme was launched in 2019 and is supported by generous funding from The Edward Gostling Foundation, Pears Foundation, and The Julia Rausing Trust.

Broadcaster Ken Bruce MBE recently fronted a radio appeal for the programme, raising almost £50,000 to help reach more families in need.

How to apply

Families caring for disabled young adults aged 18–24 living at home can check their eligibility and apply via the Family Fund website.

With rising household bills and persistent financial pressures on carers, Your Opportunity offers a critical lifeline to help disabled young adults thrive with dignity and support.

For more information or to apply, visit: https://www.familyfund.org.uk