Disabled Facilities Grants

Help you will get

If you are eligible, you can get a grant for home adaptations of up to £30,000.

The amount of grant awarded is decided by conducting a Means Test. This test is used to assess the amount of contribution you might need to pay towards the cost of the works.

If the grant is for a child or young person under the age of 19 who is still in full time education there is no means test.

If you receive any of the following income-related benefits you will not have a contribution to make towards the grant:

• Universal Credit
• Housing Benefit
• Income Related Employment Support Allowance
• Income Related Job Seekers Allowance
• Incapacity Benefit
• Income Support
• Pension Credit (guarantee element only)
• Working or Child Tax Credits where your income is below £15,050

Fast-tracked applications

We can fast track applications to help you leave hospital faster or prevent admission to hospital. These must be referred by NHS Occupational Therapists or GP Care Advisers directly to our Housing Occupational Therapist.

Repayment of grant

If you own your home a charge for the amount of grant over the first £5,000 will be placed on your property for a period of 10 years. This interest free charge is limited to a maximum of £10,000. This is repayable if the property is sold or transferred within that period. After the 10 years the charge is removed.

How to apply

To apply for a grant, you must first arrange an assessment with Essex County Council.

They will send an occupational therapist to assess your needs to see if you are eligible. They will then make recommendations on what equipment and adaptations you need.

Applications for children

For children, contact the Children and Families Hub on 0345 603 7627.

If you are a Colchester Borough Homes tenant, you should initially contact Colchester Borough Homes on 01206 282971.