Home improvements - Disability facility grant for a private property
Disabled Facilities Grants are available to
carry out a wide range of works that may be needed to help a
disabled person to remain living independently within their own
home. First, the needs of the disabled person are assessed by an
occupational therapist. Then, if an adaptation is necessary and
appropriate, the occupational therapist provides details
to the Home Improvement Agency. We then work out what might be
possible and help with grant applications. The following are some
examples of the types of work we carry out:
- Installation of ramps
- Widening of doors
- Installation of stairlifts
- Provision of suitable bathroom and kitchen
facilities
- To improve access and movement around the
home
Disabled Facilities Grants can be awarded to
owner-occupiers, private tenants (including tenants of registered
social landlords). They can also be given to owner-occupiers and
private tenants who apply on behalf of a disabled person living in
their home.
Disabled Facilities Grants are means tested in
line with Government legislation and in some cases, there may be a
contribution required from the customer towards the adaptation
works.
When an occupational therapist sends your
details to us we will:
- Arrange to visit the property and assess
whether the proposed works are reasonable and practicable
- Provide advice and assistance in completing
the grant application forms
- Arrange for any necessary plans to be drawn
up
- Supervise the works that are being carried
out on your home, ensuring they meet our standards
- Liaise on your behalf with all external
agencies involved in adapting your home
- Keep you informed of the progress of your
application
- Ensure you are satisfied with the
adaptation
After we get your details from an occupational
therapist, we will normally contact you within four weeks to
arrange for a Customer Support Officer to visit you at home to help
with forms and explain the next steps. If you want any
additional information on the progress of your adaptations, contact
your Customer Support Officer or Technical Officer. If you do not
know the name of your Customer Support Officer or Technical
Officer, please contact the Home Improvement Agency Helpline.
We also provide adaptations for the
tenants of Council owned properties in the same way but there is no
means test involved.
Anyone who thinks they would benefit from an
adaptation should first contact the Equipment Access Service (if it
is for an adult) or the Team for Children and Young People with
Disabilities (if it is for a younger person). This is the first
step for anyone who wants to be considered for a disabled
adaptation.