Compensation for Veterans with Chronic Pain injuries
Let's add chronic pain as a condition within the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS) tariffs.
We’re pleased to announce that the Veterans’ Mobility Fund is now once again accepting applications. After a brief pause to review and improve the application process, we’re excited to continue offering this vital support to veterans seeking to enhance their mobility, independence, and overall quality of life.
The Veterans’ Mobility Fund (VMF) is designed to support veterans with physical disabilities resulting from illness or injury sustained during service. It does this by providing life-changing grants for mobility equipment not usually available through the NHS.
It is administered by Help for Heroes with the support and partnership of Blesma and is funded by the government through the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust (AFCFT).
With over 300 grants already awarded and more than £1.1 million in funding distributed, the Fund has made a meaningful difference in the lives of many veterans - and we’re committed to reaching even more. If you or someone you know could benefit, we encourage you to apply and take the next step toward greater independence. Please read the information on this page carefully before you apply.
The VMF includes equipment which is not provided through the NHS, such as specialist wheelchairs and mobility scooters. It can also include orthotics, like splints and braces.
In some cases, the VMF will also consider applications for car adaptations. To be considered for this, you will need to provide a complete report of assessment and recommendations, which have been carried out by a suitably qualified practitioner. Visit the driving mobility website for more information on this.
Some things that can’t be funded by the VMF include
The VMF is also unable to fund medical or surgical procedures, ongoing clinical treatment and hot tubs, saunas or hydro pools.
Whilst the above may not be funded through the VMF, please email our team as we may be able to signpost you to relevant organisations that can support.
Your application will be acknowledged within 10 working days, however, please note that this may be longer if you have completed a postal application. You can expect to hear a decision on your application within 40 days.
You can apply to the VMF as many times as you want for mobility-related injuries. The panel will review each case individually.
If your need changes, for example if you begin to clinically deteriorate, you can submit a new application.
Appealing the outcome of your application
If you are unhappy and wish to appeal the outcome of your application, you can do so by emailing our team - veteransmobilityfund@helpforheroes.org.uk.
Alternatively, if you wish to make a complaint, then please visit our complaints page.
Please read the information below carefully before you apply.
Wheelchair applications -
If you are applying for a wheelchair, please contact your local wheelchair service to check whether you are eligible for a Personal Wheelchair Budget (PWB). If approved, this can contribute towards the cost of your equipment alongside a VMF grant. For more information, please see the link.
Approved suppliers -
Please ensure that all quotes for recommended equipment are obtained from an approved VMF supplier. You can view the list link. Using a non-approved supplier may delay your application.
Equipment trials -
All recommended equipment must be trialled as part of your assessment. This helps confirm that the equipment is safe and suitable for your needs.
To obtain a copy of your War Pension or AFCS award document please contact Veterans UK by calling 0808 191 4 218.
Once you have been provided with a copy of your document, you can email this to veteransmobilityfund@helpforheroes.org.uk to support your stage one application.
If you have any questions regarding the process, please call our team on 03003039888.
Unfortunately, we do not accept quotes from non-approved VMF suppliers. In all instances, we will look to use a VMF approved supplier. We will ask you to provide quotes from our preferred suppliers as part of the application process.
If applying for a wheelchair, we ask that you first contact your local NHS Wheelchair Service to check whether you are eligible for an NHS Personal Wheelchair Budget. If approved, this budget can be combined with a VMF contribution to help fund the equipment you choose.
Please see the NHS Personal Wheelchair Budget website for more information and for FAQs.Yes — you must insure any equipment provided through the VMF.
The VMF is unable to repair or replace equipment that is lost, stolen, or damaged if it is not insured. Some items may be covered under your existing home insurance policy, but you will need to check this directly with your insurer. There are also specialist insurers who provide cover for mobility and/or medical equipment. Please note that the VMF is unable to recommend specific insurers.
Yes, please download the latest list.
Appealing the outcome of your application
If you are unhappy and wish to appeal the outcome of your application, you can do so by emailing our team - veteransmobilityfund@helpforheroes.org.uk. You can find our appeals process here: (link to appeals process document)
Alternatively, if you wish to make a complaint, then please visit our complaints page.
The VMF will remain open until all funding is exhausted. Although we will be campaigning for this to continue.
Yes – if there is a clinical need you can make applications for multiple service-attributable health conditions.
To find out what support we may be able to offer you, please get in touch or call 0300 303 9888.
We are happy for you to purchase extended warranty and guarantees at your own expense. The VMF does not fund for warranties or guarantees.
First, you must contact veteransmobilityfund@helpforheroes.org.uk if you no longer require your equipment. You are not permitted to gift or sell the equipment.
We are only able to accept clinical recommendations from certified Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, Rehabilitation Specialists, or Prosthetists/Orthotists. Unfortunately, we cannot accept applications where assessments have been completed by GPs.
If you are not currently working with any of the clinicians listed above, or do not have access to one, please contact the VMF team and let us know. We can assist you with a referral to an Occupational Therapist which the VMF will fund.
It is the applicant's responsibility to service and maintain the equipment.
The equipment supplier, therapist, or specialist will be able to show you how the equipment works to enable you to use this safely.
Applying is a two stage process. You can begin your application today using the link below. If you are unable to complete an online form, please call our Helpline on 0300 303 9888 to discuss alternative options.
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