How to apply for Sapphire Foundation’s medical cannabis access scheme

Applications are now open for the Sapphire Foundation’s medical cannabis grant scheme – here’s everything you need to know. 

Following a successful fundraising drive throughout 2020, Sapphire Medical Foundation has announced the next round of grant applications is open from Monday 25 January. 

 The foundation made history at the end of last year as the first cannabis fund to be awarded charity status following a landmark decision by the Charity Commission. 

The charity aims to reduce the financial barrier of access to medical cannabis for patients. 

Medical cannabis was legalised in the UK in 2018, but the high cost associated with prescriptions for medical cannabis can be a barrier to what is for some people a life-changing medication. 

As a result, some patients are unable to meet all of their regular financial obligations which impacts the ability to start or continue treatment. 

Kirran Gill

The Sapphire Foundation provides financial assistance to cover the costs of treatment for a minimum of one year for each patient who receives one of its grants.

Last year 38-year-old Kirran Gill became the first patient to be supported by the foundation following its inaugural grant application round. 

Kirran, who lives with chronic pain from fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis has previously shared how the access to this treatment, made possible by the Sapphire Foundation, has given her ‘beacon of hope’ during some very dark times. 

How to apply

All those who wish to apply themselves or on behalf or someone they care for can do so online by visiting https://www.sapphirefoundation.co.uk/apply-for-help/

The application form includes contact details, medical and financial details. Patients are encouraged  to register first which allows you to save your application as you go. 

The application will be open for six weeks, closing on 14 March 2021. 

After this date, patients will be assessed in accordance with the Foundation’s fair and transparent grant making principles to ensure that support is provided where it is most needed.

All grants are made following a thorough assessment of eligibility. Grant making principles can be seen here.

How to support the Foundation 

Sapphire Foundation relies heavily on the generous donations and fundraising of supporters to enable us to provide financial assistance to those with the greatest need.

 For those able to donate, please do so via https://www.sapphirefoundation.co.uk/donations/make-a-donation/. 

The more money raised, the more patients it is able to support to access treatment.