Deadline: 01-Jul-2026
The Wolfson Foundation provides capital grants to organisations supporting people with disabilities to live more independently. Funding is used for buildings, refurbishment, and equipment that improve supported housing, training, employment support, and transition services. Grants typically range from £25,000 to £75,000 and require significant capital investment and a funding gap.
Overview of the Programme
The Wolfson Foundation disability grant programme supports organisations that help people with disabilities achieve greater independence and improved quality of life. It focuses on capital investment projects that strengthen infrastructure, expand services, and improve long-term organisational sustainability.
The programme prioritises practical improvements in service environments rather than day-to-day operational funding.
Key Focus Areas
Funding supports projects that strengthen disability services, including:
- Independent living support services
- Supported housing and accommodation
- Training and skills development programmes
- Employment support and employability services
- Transition support for young people moving into adult services
- Service accessibility improvements
- Equipment and assistive technology provision
- Expansion of service capacity and quality
- Long-term organisational sustainability
Eligible Organisations
Applicants must be one of the following:
- Registered charities
- Exempt charities
- Equivalent charitable organisations
- Local authorities
Additional eligibility considerations:
- Organisations supporting people with disabilities are strongly encouraged
- Organisations with limited fundraising ability due to service type are also eligible
- Where applicable, organisations should have at least a “Good” rating from regulators such as CQC or Ofsted
Eligible Projects
The programme funds capital-only projects, including:
- New building development
- Major refurbishment or renovation
- Purchase of essential equipment
Minimum requirements:
- Total capital project cost: at least £50,000
- Demonstrated capital funding gap: at least £25,000
Funding Structure
Grant details:
- Minimum grant: £25,000
- Typical grant range: £40,000 to £75,000
Funding is intended to support structural improvements that directly enhance independence, accessibility, and service delivery.
How Funding Can Be Used
Grants may support:
- Development of supported housing for independent living
- Upgrading facilities for disability services
- Acquisition of assistive or specialist equipment
- Creation of training and employment support centres
- Transition programmes for young people with disabilities
- Improvements in accessibility and service reach
Why This Funding Matters
This programme strengthens disability support systems by enabling organisations to:
- Promote independent living for people with disabilities
- Improve transition pathways into adult services
- Expand employment and skills development opportunities
- Enhance housing and care infrastructure
- Increase accessibility and inclusion in service delivery
Capital investment ensures long-term improvements in quality of life and service sustainability.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting non-capital (operational) costs
- Proposals below £50,000 total capital value
- Weak justification for funding shortfall
- Ineligible organisations (non-charities or for-profit entities)
- Poor alignment with independent living outcomes
- Lack of evidence for service demand or impact
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the main goal of this programme?
To support independent living for people with disabilities through capital investment in services and infrastructure.
2. What type of funding is provided?
Capital grants for buildings, refurbishment, and equipment.
3. What is the minimum grant amount?
£25,000.
4. What is the typical grant range?
Between £40,000 and £75,000.
5. Are running costs eligible?
No, only capital costs are supported.
6. Who can apply?
Charities, exempt charities, equivalent organisations, and local authorities.
7. Is regulatory compliance required?
Yes, where applicable organisations should have at least a “Good” rating from bodies such as CQC or Ofsted.
Conclusion
The Wolfson Foundation disability and independent living grants programme supports organisations that help people with disabilities live more independently. By funding capital projects such as housing, equipment, and service facilities, the programme strengthens long-term support systems, improves accessibility, and enhances quality of life outcomes.
For more information, visit The Wolfson Foundation.