Adaptations
Adaptations are fixtures and fittings which can help people to move around their homes, improve access to their homes or help them to live at home more easily.
Examples of adaptations include:
Grab Rails → These bars or handles can help with stability and support when moving around or transferring between surfaces.
Widening Doorways → This can improve accessibility and mobility, especially for those using wheelchairs or other mobility aids.
Stair lifts → These can help with accessing different levels of a home.
→ Access ramps
→ Level taps
Hoists → These can help with moving around the home or hospital, and can increase independence and mobility.
Shower Stools → These can help with washing and support the body while conserving energy.
Bathroom adaptations → These can include rearranging bathroom facilities to allow for better movement, or installing a shower over the bath.
Kitchen adaptations → These can be designed around specific needs, and can cater for those with restricted mobility or who use a wheelchair.
If you have difficulty moving around your home, or difficulty with everyday tasks and you think that adaptations would help, contact your Supported Housing Officer on 0161 236 0829 who will be able to advise.
Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG)
For all adaptations an occupational therapist assessment is required. For costly adaptations, these are usually funded by a disabled facility grant and this funding should be explored in the first instance. Information on what qualifies for grants can be found here: www.gov.uk/disabled-facilities-grants a Disabled Facilities Grant won’t affect any benefits you get.
A DFG is means-tested. All local authorities run a DFG scheme. Often, they will use them for adaptations that cost more than £1,000.
Sometimes local authorities will pay more to meet your needs if it saves them money in the long run.
If you would like to make a major adaptation to your home, such as a permanent ramp or stair lift, you will need to write to the Property Services Manager at Head Office. You should include the occupational therapist assessment to evidence that the work is required. We will not refuse permission for adaptations to be carried out without good reason.
Contact your Supported Housing Officer on 0161 236 0829 for anything else.