Martineau Care Fund

The Martineau Care Fund provides grants to purchase daily living equipment and to provide support for people facing illness or disabilities in Suffolk who are unable to afford the costs themselves. Grants of up to £1,000 are available for equipment such as mobility aids, specialized equipment to aid independence and wellbeing, special software for PC access, domestic appliances necessitated by illness or disability, bedding including protective covers and special mattresses, and respite care support in exceptional circumstances. All applications must come from Registered Health and Social Care Professionals (such as Social Workers, Occupational Therapists, or Health Visitors) on behalf of individuals. The beneficiary must have an authenticated medical condition or need. Applications seeking funding for daily living equipment will only be considered if the equipment is not supplied by the NHS, Suffolk County Council, or other statutory providers. Two comparative quotes must be submitted with applications (with some exceptions), and payment is made directly to the supplier. The fund also considers hardship funding distributed through partner organizations to cover items arising as a direct consequence of illness or disability, including heating costs, clothing required following illness or surgery, and travel costs for hospital appointments.