Handicapped Childrens Action Group

HCAG funds capital purchases of specialist disability equipment for children under 16 with disabilities, learning difficulties, or special needs. This includes mobility aids such as trikes and wheelchairs, communication devices, and supportive furniture like specialist beds or seating. The aim is to enhance daily life, inclusion, and well-being where other resources fall short, targeting individual children across the UK. They focus on items that promote independence, mobility, social inclusion, and normal childhood experiences, filling gaps in statutory provision. The charity does not fund items available through the NHS or other statutory services, nor does it support projects, revenue, or capacity building.

Families, professionals, or small grassroots organisations can apply on behalf of a child under 16 with disabilities, learning difficulties, or special needs from a low-income family. There are no geographic restrictions within the UK or formal income thresholds, though rigorous means-testing of family finances is required. The charity prioritises genuine need over benefit status, often supporting working households facing high care costs who are 'just above threshold' for statutory help. Unsolicited applications are accepted, and beneficiaries are typically referred by professionals or apply directly.

HCAG does not fund unrestricted support, core costs, projects, revenue, capacity building, or items available through statutory services such as the NHS. They also do not fund equipment that is not directly related to the child's disability or special needs, or items that are primarily for general use rather than specialist disability support.

HCAG makes capital grants for specialist disability equipment, typically in a modest range. They welcome unsolicited applications, which are accepted on a rolling basis via a downloadable form submitted by email or post with medical and financial evidence. The charity operates with a low-overhead model, focusing directly on person-centred gap-filling for severely disabled children.