The Home Access programme has helped more than 200,000 low-income families get access to a computer and the internet. It is now focusing on applications from families with children with disabilities or Special Educational Needs. If you intend to apply, get your application in soon, as only around 12,000 grants remain to be awarded.

Home Access programme
Home Access is a government drive to help low-income families to get access to a computer and the internet to get online at home. Since launch in January, it has helped more than 200,000 families with children in Years 3 to 9 to get access to a home computer and/or broadband. The programme has been very popular, and is expected to close when the funding runs out.
12,000 assistive technology packages remaining
Children with Special Educational Needs or severe disabilities are invited to apply for the remaining grants. The Home Access Programme expects to award around 12,000 Home Access packages with assistive technology.
Assistive technologies include, for example:
  • screen readers
  • an adapted keyboard or mouse
  • special software such as screen magnification and text prediction
How the Home Access programme works
If you are a low-income family receiving certain benefits, you could qualify for a grant to buy a computer and/or a minimum of one year’s internet access. Depending on what you need, the grant allows eligible families to buy one of the following packages:
1. full package (a computer, one year’s internet access, service and support)
2. a computer with service and support only
3. one year’s internet access only
For more information and to find out if you are eligible, follow the link below to take the quick eligibility test.
You can also request an application form from the Home Access Grant Helpline by calling 0333 200 1004.