Gloucestershire Association for Disability

The Gloucestershire Association for Disability, operating as Gloucestershire Disability Fund, is a local charity founded in 1995 to promote the welfare and quality of life for people with physical, sensory, and learning disabilities across Gloucestershire. Governed by trustees including those with lived disability experience, it embodies a person-centred ethos of dignity, fairness, empathy, and barrier removal, prioritizing practical support that enhances independence, well-being, and participation for all ages while excluding those whose primary needs stem from serious mental health conditions.

It funds both individuals and not-for-profit organisations or community groups, with individual grants addressing one-off exceptional needs like assistive technology, specialist equipment, respite breaks, accessible transport, or home adaptations (up to £1,000). Organisational grants support disability-focused projects such as training, accessibility improvements, and community/cultural participation initiatives (typically up to £5,000), favouring tangible benefits for the local disabled community over campaigning or policy work.

Eligibility is strictly limited to Gloucestershire residents and groups operating within the county, with no income thresholds but a preference for grassroots and small-to-medium organisations; unsolicited applications from any size are welcome. Submit via online or paper form after reviewing guidance notes—individuals require professional support letters and quotes—with monthly deadlines eight days before the first-Thursday grants panel (decisions within one month; one award per 12 months). Grants pay against invoices only. Distinctives include its hyper-local mandate, open accessible process, and focus on proven, life-enhancing interventions rather than core costs, debts, ongoing care, or general living expenses.