Here at Crackerjack’s Children’s Trust we believe that regardless of their needs, every child should have the opportunity to fully engage in their community. We are dedicated to ensuring that all children have access to the same choices, opportunities, and experiences as other children; to make local friends, and to access play, leisure and recreational facilities.

Families with children that are differently able often find it more difficult with everyday life as they often have to live in unsuitable housing; they find it difficult to get out and about; and they cannot access childcare that would enable them to go to work and break out of poverty. 

On average it costs twice as much to raise a child with an impairment as a non-disabled child. The main areas of additional expenditure are transport, toiletries, bedding, food, replacing damaged household items, special toys and equipment. Children who are differently able and their families often suffer from social exclusion as a result of a combination of linked problems, including poverty, segregation, discrimination, and inadequate provision of support services. 

Of all families in the UK who care for children who are differently able, 30 percent either are or have been living in poverty. A fifth of families with children who are differently able are also reported to be living in cold, damp housing in poor repair. Crackerjacks were established to help relieve the stress and strains of coping with a child's disability can cause. We are dedicated to our objectives and welcome contact from parents, care workers, or guardians for further information on how we can assist. All cases will be reviewed individually and assessed by our grants welfare office and trustees.

 

Applications are considered up to £350 for sensory toys and £3000 for specialised equipment. 

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Please note:

• Applications can take up to three months to be assessed.

• The charity has no obligation to provide reasons for any rejected applications.

• All communications regarding an application will only be dealt with by post or email to grants@crackerjacks.org.uk

 

To obtain an application form, you can DOWNLOAD IT HERE.