Is a Disabled Facilities Grant for You?
Would a stairlift or level-access shower make it easier for you or a family member to stay in your home? Did you know that the council can offer disabled facilities grants to eligible residents to make adaptations to their homes?
Applications can be made for multiple adaptations including creating downstairs bedrooms and bathrooms, kitchen adaptations, external access ramps, door widening, stair lifts, level access showers, and electronic door entry systems. To be eligible, you need to intend to live at the property for at least five years, whether you own your own home or rent privately or from a housing association.
The first step to applying for a grant is to speak to your GP and get a referral to an occupational therapist who will carry out an assessment of your needs and recommend adaptations. A grants officer will then arrange a visit and explain the next stage of the process. The council’s Adaptations Support Service can help you to complete the grant application form and to prepare and draw up the proposed plans.
Between April and June this year, 34 disabled facilities grants and 40 adaptations were completed at a total cost to the council of £376,597.08.
Residents who have had work completed are delighted with the results. One resident said: “I love having a beautiful new bathroom, especially new tiles to the ceiling. The two bathroom fitters were very considerate, they left everything very clean and tidy each day. I have a lovely clean, hygienic bathroom.”
Another said: “Being able to have a shower and washer toilet has helped me so much and really made a difference to how I live. Absolutely amazing. And the front access to my home too. I’m so, so grateful, thank you.”
Cllr Glenn Haffenden, leader of the council and lead councillor for housing, says: “It’s great news that disabled facilities grants have made such positive differences to residents’ lives. The positive comments about the adaptations that have been done are lovely to hear. If you rent your home and think this isn’t for you, please talk to your landlord: they can apply for you, and in many cases, a financial contribution isn’t needed from residents.”
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