Personal Grants

Personal grants can be applied for by residents in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland however, we are unable to accept applications from overseas.

A diagnosis of GBS, CIDP, MMN, or another Inflammatory Neuropathy in the family is naturally a scary time. Unfortunately, it can also lead to financial hardship in some cases, be it from fuel and parking costs while visiting loved ones each day in hospital, or from purchasing special equipment to make the return home safer and accessible.

GAIN have a fund designed to help people in those times of hardship. Originally created to pay travelling expenses, the GAIN has gone on to consider and make grants for other reasons of hardship that can occur during this critical time.

Note: Requests for a personal grant will only be considered if the hardship is due to, or has been aggravated by GBS, CIDP or an associated inflammatory neuropathy. Grants are not awarded where the support can be obtained through a statutory body or process. Grants can be made up of smaller grants paid over a period of time or as a one off payment.

Some examples of grants:

Medical or other equipment (possibly on loan) – such electric wheelchairs or adaptable toilet seats
Adaptations to homes – such as railings, or a shower grab rail
payment of travelling expenses – such as parking charges for visiting patients in hospital, or train tickets

Notes:

Where the grant is for the provision of equipment, the equipment would become the property of the applicant rather than the charity. The applicant is responsible for the ongoing maintenance of the equipment and any problems should be taken up with the supplier/manufacturer.
Recurring household bills or debts cannot be considered – for these you should seek help from your local Social Services, Citizens’ Advice Bureau, Citizens’ Advice Scotland, Citizens’ Information Republic of Ireland, the consumer Credit Counselling Service or the National Debtline.

How to Apply

Please complete the Application form which includes guidance notes. All information supplied by you will be treated by GAIN in confidence. If the application form is a little daunting, don’t worry. Either email us directly on office@gaincharity.org.uk, or fill in the contact form at the bottom of the page and we can provide help.

Completed Application Forms should be sent to:

Guillain-Barré & Associated Inflammatory Neuropathies
Glennys Sanders House,
Pride Parkway,
Sleaford
NG34 8GL

For any queries please email office@gaincharity.org.uk

If the application form is a little daunting, if you’re not 100% sure you’re eligible, or you just want a little advice or information, simply fill out this form below. It’ll come to the GAIN team and we’ll be happy to help support you.