Family Fund secures funding for next three years
Department for Education commits £81.9 million for charity’s work across the UK
The Department for Education has confirmed that it will maintain its £27.3 million annual funding for Family Fund for three years from 2017-18. The commitment is for £81.9 million in total.
Family Fund is the UK’s largest charity providing grants for families raising disabled or seriously ill children and young people.
Last year, it provided 89,423 grants or services worth over £36 million to families across the UK. The charity aims to give all families raising disabled and seriously ill children and young people the same opportunities as others by providing grants for essential items, such as washing machines, sensory toys, family breaks, bedding, clothing and computers.
Minister of State for Vulnerable Children and Families’ comments
Minister of State for Vulnerable Children and Families Edward Timpson MP met recently with staff and families who had received support from Family Fund to find out more about what a difference the grants had made.
He said “No child, regardless of the obstacles they face, should miss out on vital life experiences. I’m delighted to confirm that we will be giving Family Fund £81.9 million over the next three years, in recognition of the life-changing support it gives to families.
“This important work was brought to life thanks to the heartfelt stories of the parents and young people who took part in our meeting. I hope this announcement gives Family Fund the confidence to continue their work to help thousands of families across the country.”
Family Fund Chief Executive’s comments
Cheryl Ward, Chief Executive of Family Fund, said “This significant commitment from the Department for Education will make an incredible difference to the families we support and we are thrilled.
“Our grants provide practical and essential support and help improve the quality of life and ease some of the additional daily pressures faced by many families.
“The security of three years’ funding allows Family Fund to plan ahead to deliver our grants and services with confidence and, most importantly, will mean a reliable source of support for families raising disabled or seriously ill children and young people across England. We will work hard to ensure this funding supports as many families as possible.”
The funding will cover 2017-18 to 2019-20 inclusive.
