Dreams and wishes

Most charities focus on children and young people with progressive and life-limiting conditions, but some also help adults.

Each charity has its own rules, and usually only one wish is allowed. It’s important to check charity websites before applying. Some need a healthcare professional or social worker to apply or support your application.

Applications can take a while, especially for dream trips, so it’s best to apply early.

Many charities offer dream trips and special experiences for children and teenagers living with serious or complex health conditions.

These might include:

• A trip to Disneyland
• Meeting a celebrity or sports star
• A day out at a theme park
• A short accessible break for the whole family

These experiences can bring joy, boost confidence and help families create lasting memories.

Charities that offer dreams and wishes for children

Dreamflight
Take children aged 8 to 14 with serious illnesses on a trip to Florida or within the UK to have fun and build confidence.

Dreams Come True
For children aged 5 to 18 with serious or life-limiting conditions, with a focus on families in high-deprivation areas.

Make-A-Wish UK
For children aged 3 to 17 with a critical condition. Wishes are unique and tailored to the child.

Muscle Help Foundation
For young people aged 8 to 28 with muscular dystrophy. Offering unique ‘Muscle Dreams’.

Promise Dreams
For children under 18 with serious conditions. They fund days out, trips, or essential items.

Rays of Sunshine
Grants personal wishes for children aged 3 to 18 with serious illness.

When You Wish Upon a Star
For children aged 4 to 16 with a life-threatening or terminal illness.

Wish-granting schemes for adults are less common than those for children, but there are some charities in the UK that offer similar opportunities for adults living with serious or terminal illnesses.

Fewer charities offer dream trips for adults, but there may still be options – especially if you have a life-limiting or progressive condition. Some grant-making organisations and support schemes may also help fund a special trip or experience.

Charities that offer dreams and wishes for adults

Muscle Help Foundation
Offers unique ‘Muscle Dreams’ for young adults aged up to 28 with muscular dystrophy.

Purple Heart Wishes
For adults aged 18 to 55 with a terminal illness including those in palliative care and advanced stages of progressive conditions. They arrange memorable experiences tailored to your needs, like day trips or family outings.

Willow
Willow arranges special days and short breaks for young people and adults aged 16 to 40 living with a serious illness. This can include short breaks, tickets to events, spa days, or time away with family and friends.

Some charities offer grants or funding towards accessible holidays for disabled people. These can help cover the cost of travel, accommodation, or equipment hire.