£37 million to support children with complex needs

In a press release published today, the Government have revealed that children with special educational needs and disabilities in England will benefit from £37.3 million of direct support in 2020-21, which is expected to help more than 75,000 families in England. This includes £10m which has been allocated to help families in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Families with children who have complex needs and disabilities will receive grants for essential equipment to make their lives easier while implementing social distancing measures, including computers, specialist equipment and educational toys. The multi-million-pound settlement for Family Fund*, detailed by Children and Families Minister Vicky Ford, will help low-income families with seriously ill or disabled children with the cost of equipment, goods or services - from washing machines and refrigerators to sensory and educational equipment that they might not otherwise be able to afford. The grants are typically worth £400 to £500 per family but vary depending on need.

*Family Fund provides grants to low-income families raising disabled or seriously ill children and young people, and aims to improve their quality of life by paying for a wide range of items that can ease the daily pressure. Families in England can find out more and apply for grants from Family Fund directly.