Self-directed support (SDS)

The Independent Living Fund Scotland (ILF Scotland) provides funding and support to help disabled people in Scotland live independently and it is funded by the Scottish Government. ILF Scotland began operations in July 2015, taking over the functions of the old UK Independent Living Fund (ILF).

In Scotland, it currently delivers three types of support:

1. Transition Fund – providing up to £4,000 to help young disabled people transition into adulthood, and become more engaged and active in their communities. Get support to apply to the Transition Fund.
2. Technology Grant – helping young disabled people aged 16 to 25 to get online
3. ILF Fund – providing discretionary payments to disabled people aged over 16, allowing them to purchase care and support to live independently

Applying to the ILF Fund

The ILF Fund is designed to support the most disabled people in Scotland. To be eligible, you must have receive SDS support and meet the access principles. You cannot apply to the ILF Fund on your own, Social Work must submit the application for you.

Each year we receive a limited number of places for ILF Fund applications. We identify people who meet the ILF access principles and put them forward based on the priorities set by ILF Scotland.

If you think you might be eligible for the ILF Fund, please speak to your allocated worker. They will explain the criteria and discuss whether you can be considered. 

How to get started

If you would like to explore any of the ILF options, visit ILF Scotland for full details. For ILF Fund applications, contact your worker so they can guide you through the next steps.