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We are providing information for residents, businesses, and communities which we will review and update regularly. View the latest updates, advice and guidance.
We are providing information for residents, businesses, and communities which we will review and update regularly. View the latest updates, advice and guidance.
If a disability is making life difficult for you, or someone living in your house, then you may be entitled to help in the form of a grant or an interest-free loan.
Home owners, tenants, occupiers of house boats and park homes, and landlords can apply for this mandatory grant towards the cost of adapting a home to meet the needs of a disabled person. Applications will only be considered where an occupational therapy assessment has been received.
The maximum cost of works covered by the grant is £30,000 and depending on the disabled person's financial circumstances, there may be a contribution to make. Where the grant approved is more than £5000, the Council may secure a recoverable charge on the property of up to £10,000. This is registered as a local land charge and will stay in force for 10 years.
The works can include:
There may be other works which can be included and we will always advise you.
Maximum funding for Disabled Facilities
The maximum funding towards a disabled facilities grant is £30,000 less any assessed contribution from the applicant.
Loans to meet an applicant's assessed contribution
If an applicant cannot meet their assessed contribution for a DFG the Council and Essex Social Services will explore the available funding options.
Who to contact
Before any Disabled Facilities Grant can go forward you need to know whether the proposed works are suitable. You should contact Social Care Direct at Essex County Council on 0845 603 7630. If their assessment identifies eligible works then they will send us a copy of the Occupational Therapist's recommendations with a request that we offer financial assistance in the form of a grant or loan.
If you are a Colchester Borough Homes Tenant then you should initially contact Colchester Borough Homes on 01206 282971.
Read our Disabled Facilities Grants Frequently Asked Questions.