Equipment and Activity Grant for Children and Young People (New Zealand)

Deadline: 28-May-2026

The Equipment and Activity Grant by Wilson Home Trust provides financial support of up to $5,750 for children and young people with physical disabilities. The grant helps families access assistive equipment, services, and inclusive experiences that improve quality of life and participation. It is designed to support wellbeing, mobility, and development for individuals aged 0–21.

Overview

The Equipment and Activity Grant is a family-focused funding programme that supports children and young people with physical disabilities.

The grant aims to:

• Improve daily living and mobility
• Increase participation in activities
• Enhance overall wellbeing and development

Funding is provided to help families access essential equipment, services, and meaningful experiences.

Key Focus Areas

Core Support Areas

The grant focuses on:

• Assistive and mobility equipment
• Disability support services
• Inclusive and recreational activities
• Family wellbeing and support
• Child and youth development

Outcomes

The programme aims to:

• Increase independence
• Improve accessibility
• Promote inclusion and participation
• Enhance quality of life

Funding Details

Grant Amount

• Up to $5,750 (including GST) per eligible child or young person

What the Grant Covers

• Assistive equipment (e.g., mobility aids)
• Accessible activities and experiences
• Services that support participation and development

What is NOT Covered

• Intensive therapies
• Overseas therapies
• Items/services already purchased or paid for

Who is Eligible?

Applicant Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be children or young people aged 0–21 years
• Have a physical disability
• Meet financial need criteria
• Reside within the Trust’s designated funding area

Additional Requirements

• Must comply with the Trust’s funding guidelines
• Applications must be submitted before purchase or service use

Why This Grant Matters

Impact on Families

This grant:

• Reduces financial barriers to essential support
• Enables access to life-enhancing opportunities
• Supports family wellbeing and caregiving

Impact on Children and Youth

• Encourages active participation in society
• Promotes independence and confidence
• Supports physical and emotional development

How to Apply

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Check Eligibility
   • Confirm age, disability, and residency criteria
2. Identify Needs
   • Select equipment, service, or activity that supports development
3. Prepare Application
   Include:
   • Applicant details
   • Description of requested support
   • Justification of need and impact
4. Submit Application
   • Ensure submission before any purchase is made
5. Assessment Process
   • Applications are reviewed based on:
     • Need and impact
     • Eligibility compliance
     • Alignment with grant objectives

Application Processing Timeline

Fast-Track Applications

• Requests under $575 (including GST)
• Processed within 3 working days

Standard Applications

• Requests above $575
• Reviewed by:
  • Grants Committee
  • Committee of Management
• Meetings held approximately every 6 weeks

Notification

• Applicants are informed of outcomes via email

Key Concepts Explained

What is Assistive Equipment?

Assistive equipment includes:

• Tools or devices that improve mobility, independence, and daily functioning
• Examples: wheelchairs, walkers, adaptive devices

What are Inclusive Activities?

Inclusive activities are:

• Experiences designed to be accessible for individuals with disabilities
• Promote social participation and engagement

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying after purchasing equipment or services
• Requesting funding for ineligible therapies
• Submitting incomplete applications
• Not clearly explaining the impact of support

Pro Tips

• Clearly describe how the funding will improve daily life
• Apply early to avoid missing deadlines
• Ensure all documents and details are complete
• Align your request with the grant’s purpose

FAQ

1. Who can apply for this grant?

Children and young people aged 0–21 with physical disabilities who meet eligibility criteria.

2. What is the maximum funding amount?

Up to $5,750 (including GST) per applicant.

3. Can I apply after purchasing equipment?

No. Applications must be submitted before any purchase or payment.

4. Are therapies covered under this grant?

No, intensive or overseas therapies are not eligible.

5. How long does the application process take?

• Under $575: within 3 working days
• Above $575: reviewed every 6 weeks

6. What types of support can be funded?

Assistive equipment, inclusive activities, and services that improve participation and wellbeing.

7. How will I know if my application is approved?

You will receive an email notification with the outcome.

Conclusion

The Equipment and Activity Grant provides essential financial support to families of children with physical disabilities, enabling access to tools and experiences that enhance independence, participation, and quality of life. With a clear focus on inclusion and wellbeing, this programme plays a vital role in empowering young individuals to thrive.

For more information, visit The Wilson Home Trust