Help & support
Aids & adaptations
If you or a member of your household finds it difficult living in your home due to a disability, you may be entitled to aids and adaptations that can help.
We understand that living with a disability can sometimes require adjustments to your home. We're here to help. This page explains the types of adaptations available and how to request them.
What are Adaptations?
Adaptations are changes made to your home to make it easier for you to live independently, comfortably, and safely. They can range from small changes like grab rails to larger projects such as stairlifts or level access showers.
Types of Adaptations:
Minor Adaptations: These are generally smaller, less complex changes that can often be installed quickly. Examples include:
- Grab rails and handrails
- Ramps
- Raised toilet seats
- Lever taps
Major Adaptations: These are more significant changes that usually require more planning and construction work. Examples include:
- Stairlifts
- Through-floor lifts
- Level access showers or wet rooms
- Widening doorways
For all adaptations, we seek the best approach which considers the recommendations and available funding of your Local Authority and any other third party. In consideration of adapting your home to better suit your needs, we will also discuss with you the possibility of moving to a more suitable home.
Regardless of how an adaptation is funded or provided for, it must have our approval and no adaptation can be carried out without our consent.
If you need to get in touch with us regarding an adaptation, please contact us via Connect with us form by clicking the pink button below.
Disabled Facilities Grant
Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is a government-funded program designed to help individuals with disabilities make necessary adaptations to their homes. This financial assistance can cover a range of modifications, such as installing ramps, widening doorways, or adapting bathrooms, ensuring that individuals can live more comfortably and independently in their own homes.
How do I apply?
To apply for a Disabled Facilities Grant, you first need to contact your local council to obtain a referral from an occupational therapist. Your council will arrange for an occupational therapist to visit your home and assess any adaptations you may require.
Once the assessment is complete, the occupational therapist will send their findings to us, allowing us to plan the necessary adaptation works. Throughout this process, we will keep you informed and coordinate a convenient time for the improvements to be made.
For major adaptations, we will collaborate with your occupational therapist and local council to discuss any funding arrangements.
For further advice and information about home aids and adaptations, please contact us via Connect with us form by clicking the pink button below.
Below you will find various boroughs and their council website links to Disabled Facilities Grant information.
Barnet Council offers DFGs for residents who need home adaptations due to disability. The process begins with an OT assessment. Grants are means-tested, but applications for children under 18 are exempt from means-testing.
Website:
https://www.barnet.gov.uk/benefits-grants-and-financial-advice/benefits-if-youre-disabled/apply-disabled-facilities-grant
Brent Council provides DFGs to fund essential adaptations for disabled residents. The process starts with an OT assessment. Grants are means-tested, and eligible adaptations might include installing ramps or modifying bathrooms.
Website:
https://www.brent.gov.uk/adult-social-care/staying-independent/changes-to-your-home
Westminster City Council provides DFGs to assist disabled residents with home adaptations. An OT assessment is required to identify necessary adaptations, which could include stairlifts or accessible bathroom facilities. The grant is means-tested.
Website:
Ealing Council provides information on DFGs and the application process.
Website:
www.ealing.gov.uk/info/201105/improvements_and_repairs/382/disabled_facilities_grant
Enfield Council provides DFGs to help with the cost of home adaptations for disabled residents. After an OT assessment, grants can fund adaptations like accessible bathrooms or widened doorways. The grant is subject to a means test.
Website:
https://www.enfield.gov.uk/services/housing/home-improvement-grants
The London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham offers DFGs to disabled residents needing adaptations to their homes. Following an OT assessment, eligible works may include installing lifts, adapting heating systems, or improving access.
Website:
https://www.lbhf.gov.uk/housing/contact-us-about-housing/disabled-facilities-grant
Their DFG process similarly involves an OT assessment and focuses on making the home accessible, particularly through installing ramps, stair lifts, and wet rooms. The grant is means-tested unless the applicant is a child or receiving certain benefits.
You can learn more here -
https://www.harrow.gov.uk/housing-property/home-adaptions-grants-support-disabled-senior-people
DFGs are available for owner-occupiers, tenants, and those living in houseboats or mobile homes. After an OT assessment, eligible residents can receive adaptations like stair lifts, ramps, or wet rooms. You can apply through an online form on their website.
More details on the process are available here -
Hounslow offers adaptations like grab rails, widened doorways, and stair lifts for those in need, following an OT assessment. For private homeowners or housing association tenants, major adaptations are funded through the DFG.
More information can be found in the link below -
The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea offers DFGs to assist with home adaptations for disabled residents.
Website:
www.rbkc.gov.uk/housing/rbkc-resident-information/grants-and-adaptations
Kingston Council offers DFGs to help residents with disabilities live more independently. After an OT assessment, grants can cover adaptations like level-access showers or kitchen modifications. The grant is means-tested unless for a child.
Website:
https://www.kingston.gov.uk/grants-loans/apply-disabled-facilities-grant
Residents must first be assessed by an OT to qualify for a DFG. Adaptations can include widening doors, installing stair lifts, or providing bathroom and kitchen facilities suitable for wheelchairs.
Detailed information is available on their DFG page -
https://www.richmond.gov.uk/disabled_facilities_grants
Slough Borough Council provides DFGs to help disabled residents make essential adaptations to their homes. After an OT assessment, eligible adaptations may include installing ramps, stairlifts, or accessible bathroom facilities. The grant is means-tested unless the application is for a child.
Website:
https://www.slough.gov.uk/living-independently/home-adaptations-equipment/2
Surrey County Council collaborates with district and borough councils to offer DFGs. Residents should contact their local council within Surrey for specific information. Adaptations may include stairlifts, ramps, or bathroom modifications.
Website:
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