Support Through the Equipment and Activity Grant (New Zealand)

The Wilson Home Trust Equipment and Activity Grant provides up to $5,750 to support children and young adults (21 or under) with physical disabilities. The grant funds equipment, services, or activities that enhance independence, personal development, and quality of life. Applications under $575 are processed quickly, while larger requests undergo committee review approximately every six weeks.

Overview

The Equipment and Activity Grant is designed to enhance the lives of children and young adults with physical disabilities by funding equipment, services, and experiences that promote wellbeing, independence, and personal development. The grant also extends support to families, including parents, whanau, primary caregivers, and siblings.

Purpose of the Grant

The grant aims to:

• Improve the quality of life for children and young adults with physical disabilities

• Support personal development and independence through access to equipment and meaningful experiences

• Provide enjoyable and enriching activities that contribute to wellbeing

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Children or young adults aged 0–21 with physical disabilities primarily affecting body or limb function

• Additional sensory or intellectual disabilities may be present, but cannot be the main reason for the application

• Applications must be made for the child or young person and their family (including caregivers and siblings)

Ineligible activities or applicants include:

• Individuals over 21 years old

• Applications for intensive or overseas therapies

• Retrospective funding for previously paid items or services

Funding Details

• Maximum grant per eligible child/young person: $5,750 (including GST)

• Quick processing for applications under $575, with outcomes communicated by email

• Applications exceeding $575 are reviewed every six weeks by the Grants Committee and Committee of Management

Why It Matters

This grant provides families with resources and experiences that:

• Support independence and wellbeing

• Promote personal growth through tools, equipment, or activities

• Offer opportunities for enjoyment, engagement, and skill development

• Relieve financial pressure on families seeking specialised support

How to Apply

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

• Ensure the child or young person is 21 or under

• Confirm the primary disability is physical

Step 2: Identify Needs

• Equipment, services, or activities that will enhance quality of life

• Ensure items or activities are new and not previously funded

Step 3: Complete Application

• Provide details of the child/young person, their needs, and intended use of funds

• Include supporting documentation where relevant

Step 4: Submission and Review

• Applications under $575: processed within 3 working days

• Applications above $575: assessed by Grants Committee every six weeks

Step 5: Receive Outcome

• Applicants notified by email

• Approved funding is provided directly for the purchase of equipment or activities

Tips for Applicants

• Clearly describe how the funding will benefit the child’s development or enjoyment

• Include specific details and quotes for equipment or services

• Demonstrate the impact on the child’s independence or wellbeing

• Submit applications early to align with committee review dates

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Requesting funding for overseas therapies or retrospective costs

• Failing to demonstrate that the primary disability is physical

• Submitting incomplete information or lacking quotes/documentation

• Applying for a child or young person over 21 years old

FAQ

1. Who can apply for the grant?

Families of children or young adults aged 0–21 with physical disabilities.

2. Can I apply for past expenses?

No, retrospective applications are not accepted.

3. What is the maximum funding?

$5,750 including GST per eligible child or young person.

4. How quickly are applications processed?

Applications under $575: 3 working days. Applications over $575: approximately every six weeks.

5. Can funding cover overseas therapies?

No, intensive or overseas therapies are not funded.

6. Are additional disabilities eligible?

Yes, additional sensory or intellectual disabilities are allowed, but the primary disability must be physical.

7. Can siblings benefit from the grant?

Yes, funding may extend to the child’s family, including siblings and primary caregivers.

Conclusion

The Wilson Home Trust Equipment and Activity Grant offers crucial support to children and young adults with physical disabilities and their families. By funding equipment, services, and enriching activities, the grant enhances independence, wellbeing, and personal growth, providing a meaningful impact on daily life and long-term development.