Last March we launched our Practical Intervention Fund, which provided small items related to wellbeing and relaxation to deaf, disabled and neurodivergent people of all ages. It was the first time we’d run it and we provided items for over 50 people across the UK.

The fund is rooted in solidarity with our community – we understand that things like rest and self-care can be challenging for disabled people to find resources for. The Practical Intervention Fund created an opportunity to provide things that could have a meaningful impact on people’s wellbeing, and we had some lovely feedback from those who received items through it.

There was a lot of interest in the fund but because it had a limited budget, we were unable to accept every application we received. This was difficult for us, but it confirmed that the Practical Intervention Fund was contributing something useful – and that we should run it again.

So, as you might have guessed, I’m excited to say that we’re now opening applications for the second round!

The Fund is for anyone who identifies as deaf, disabled or neurodivergent – including anyone waiting for a diagnosis. To be eligible, you or the person you’re supporting, must live in the UK and be unable to fund the item(s) yourself.

‘Relaxation’ and ‘wellbeing’ mean different things to different people – but the main idea is to provide items that will have a positive impact on someone’s life. You don’t have to choose from a list – instead, you tell us what you would find useful. In case this isn’t an easy question to answer, here are a few examples of what we funded last year:

• Fidget and stim toys
• Massage chairs
• Air fryers
• Over-bed tables
• Roll-up beds
• Blackout curtains
• Weighted blankets
• Noise-cancelling headphones
• Trampolines
• Light projectors

If you’re interested in applying, please download our application pack – this includes the form itself and some guidance. These can be accessed in both Word and PDF format, and are also available as audio files and easy-read documents.

You can then send the completed application to me (Katie), my contact details are at the end of this post.

Alternatively, you can submit your application using our online form which can be found here.

The closing date for applications is 6pm on Thursday, 26th May. If you have any questions, or would like support with your application, please contact me via email at solidarity@touretteshero.com or via phone call, text or WhatsApp on 07903 224 323.‬

I look forward to receiving your applications!