Colchester Catalyst Charity

Colchester Catalyst Special Individual Needs Grants

Grants for individuals of any age in the CO postcode area towards specialised equipment that would alleviate a medical condition or disability and is not available from statutory services - wheelchairs, mobility scooters, special beds and mattresses, communication aids, computer software and mobility aids. A medical practitioner should support the request, and the charity never fully funds equipment: a reasonable contribution is expected. Payment goes to the supplier, not the individual.

You could get
Amount not specified
no fixed round
Deadline
Rolling
apply any time
Effort
Moderate
full application with documents

Who can apply

  • Individuals of any age with some form of special individual need, living in the CO postcode area, or someone applying on their behalf
  • The request should be supported by a medical professional (doctor, nurse, occupational therapist, physiotherapist or other)
  • Applicants with total annual income over £30,000 must explain why they cannot self-fund; for under-18s the whole family income is counted
  • Recipients take responsibility for insurance, maintenance and repairs of funded items

What it funds

Specialised equipment that would alleviate a medical condition and is not provided by statutory organisations, such as:

  • Wheelchairs
  • Mobility scooters
  • Special beds and mattresses
  • Communication aids
  • Computer software
  • Mobility aids

the charity never fully funds any equipment; a reasonable contribution is expected. Payments are made to the supplier or via an appropriate local registered charity, not to individuals.

What it will not fund

  • Any item that has already been purchased
  • Any item where there is an obligation for provision by a statutory authority
  • Replacement vehicles, unless there is evidence of a replacement fund

How to apply

  1. Read the Individual Applicants Guidelines
  2. Complete the SIN application form online, or download the PDF or Word version (or call 01206 323420 for a paper copy)
  3. Arrange for your medical professional to send a supporting letter to info@colchestercatalyst.co.uk
  4. Send written quotations for the equipment, and for a scooter or electric wheelchair the completed assessment form
  5. Applications are considered at Special Individual Needs meetings, held on Wednesdays; complete paperwork must arrive by the Tuesday a week before

the charity may discuss the application with health professionals or other charities and may seek further assessments.

Have ready

  • Completed SIN application form
  • Supporting letter from a medical professional
  • Written quotations for the equipment
  • Scooter and Electric Wheelchair Assessment Form (for a scooter or electric wheelchair)
  • Details of any social or health services assessment of your need

More like this

Other grants open to organisations like yours.