Struggling to afford a laptop or iPad for your child with SEND? You’re not alone — and thankfully, there is help available. Whether it’s for school, home learning, or communication needs, here’s how to apply for technology support for your child with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
💡 Why These Devices Matter for SEND Children
Children with SEND often benefit hugely from having their own tech at home. It can help them:
- Access learning in a more comfortable, sensory-friendly way
- Use assistive apps (e.g., speech-to-text, timers, visual schedules)
- Build independence and confidence
- Communicate more easily with school or tutors
✅ Who Might Be Eligible?
You don’t always need to be on benefits. The key is proving need, not just income.
You may be eligible if:
- Your child has an EHCP or ongoing diagnosis process
- They’re out of school or on reduced timetable
- They struggle to access learning due to anxiety, sensory needs or physical limitations
- You’re currently financially stretched (even if not on benefits)
📅 Where to Apply for Support
⚡ 1. Family Fund
- Offers grants for tablets, iPads, laptops and more
- Must be under 17 and have a high level of additional need
- Not strictly income-based, but assessed
- Apply at: https://www.familyfund.org.uk
📈 2. School or Local Authority
- Some schools can fund or loan devices via the EHCP
- Ask for it to be written in under Section F or via an Annual Review
- If your child is out of school, request support under Section 19 of the Education Act 1996
📃 3. Charities & Local Schemes
Some local or national charities offer tech grants:
- Buttle UK: https://www.buttleuk.org
- Caudwell Children: https://www.caudwellchildren.com
- Glasspool: https://www.glasspool.org.uk
- Check local SENDIASS or your council’s Local Offer page too
🔗 What You’ll Need
- Basic proof of your child’s needs (EHCP, diagnosis letter, support plan)
- Explanation of why a device is essential for learning or wellbeing
- Evidence of financial hardship (sometimes requested)
🚀 AskEllie Can Help
If you’re writing to school, LA, or charity to ask for help, you can use our free template letters on AskEllie.co.uk. We also have a full video guide explaining these routes step-by-step.
Need personalised help? Use AskEllie+, our free AI assistant trained on SEND law and entitlements.
🌟 Final Tip
Don’t give up if you’re refused the first time. Many parents apply more than once before being successful. Persistence and a clear explanation of your child’s needs can make all the difference.
✉️ Share this blog with other parents who might need it — and let us know your experiences or questions in the comments below!
Alongside AskEllie’s free AI support, we now offer an optional private one-to-one written response service for parents who need tailored help with complex SEND situations. This service was created because we receive an overwhelming volume of messages every week from families who are desperate for clarity, reassurance and practical direction. Every penny raised goes directly into building the AskEllie app — so we can support even more parents across the UK with faster, easier access to accurate SEND guidance.
If you’d like more information or want to request a personal response, please use the Contact Us form on the website.
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