Why Our Grant Assistance Scheme Was Created

We created our Grant Assistance Scheme after noticing a common theme in our social media comments: people loved the products and recommendations we shared, but often said they were too expensive to afford. As a disabled-led organisation, we fully understand just how costly life with a disability can be—and we never want our community to feel like we’re out of touch. So, I proposed the idea to AYL directors Lauren and Felix, and our dedicated funding service was born.

My Experience

Having recently fundraised for my first bespoke wheelchair, I know how difficult the process can be. But by combining my English Language and Linguistics background with Access Your Life’s professional support, I managed to secure a Quickie Life manual wheelchair paired with a powered Alber E-Fix attachment.

This life-changing combo gave me back my independence and allowed me to begin living again—no longer confined to the house or stuck in survival mode. It’s genuinely the best thing to come out of my disability journey. So why should money be the barrier that prevents others from accessing life-changing equipment?

Why This Scheme Is Needed

At AYL, we believe everyone deserves access to the best medical equipment tailored to their needs. Whether it’s access to hydrotherapy, a secondary wheelchair for different terrain, or adaptations for daily life, disabled and chronically ill people should not have to face insurmountable financial hurdles.

Since the pandemic, many charities have closed or reduced their grant offerings, making it even harder to secure funding. Even if you find a grant, meeting strict eligibility criteria and writing a compelling application can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in.

As a disabled student, I know how hard it is to balance money and health. Even with family support, I’ve still wasted thousands on unsuitable mobility aids. I know I’m not alone. Everyone on the AYL team has been there—and we constantly hear from users who are frustrated by the same experience.

Internalised ableism doesn’t help either. Many people delay asking for the equipment they need because they don’t feel “disabled enough,” or are afraid of judgment. It took me years to feel confident enough to use a wheelchair, even though it vastly improved my quality of life.

Meanwhile, the NHS wheelchair services system remains underfunded and overstretched. You might wait months only to be offered a chair that’s too heavy, poorly fitted, or simply not fit for purpose.

That’s why the AYL Grant Assistance Scheme is so important—especially for people who fall into the gaps: not eligible for full government support, waiting on PIP assessments, or in the middle of a care review. We can help reduce the pressure and take one big task off your plate.

How It Works

Our scheme is designed to help you access suitable equipment by:

✔ Identifying appropriate charity grants
✔ Helping you write applications
✔ Creating personal fundraising pages

To get started, simply fill out our online form and tell us about your needs and preferences. We do charge a small initial fee to keep the scheme running, but thanks to our amazing partners, this amount can be deducted from your final bill—so in most cases, the service is effectively free!

Our amazing case manager, Isobel, now runs the scheme and supports applicants across the UK. If you need help with forms or want to talk through your options, contact her via:

📱 Mobile: 07594 650130
📧 Email: [email protected]

Your Next Step

As you can see, our Grant Assistance Scheme removes the stress of trying to source funding, find the right equipment, and choose a trusted supplier all on your own. So, what are you waiting for?

Start your journey towards a more independent, accessible future today. The world is yours to explore—and we’re here to help you access it.

Useful Links:
💬 www.facebook.com/laurenandlena
📸 www.instagram.com/alittlepoorlylauren