More vulnerable residents will be able to improve accessibility in their homes, after Cabinet members last night (7 September) agreed to update the council’s Financial Assistance Policy, which sets out how disabled people can access funds for adaptations.
The move, which will improve and maximise delivery of the council’s Disabled Facilities Grant allocation, expands the level of discretionary assistance available by removing means-testing for stairlift equipment – providing increased support to disabled and other vulnerable residents who may also be struggling with the cost-of-living crisis.
Removing means-testing will ensure some residents will no longer need to find additional funds to install a stairlift, which can provide greater independence with relatively little alterations required in their home, and will also improve the speed at which this common adaptation is delivered.
Speaking after the meeting, Cllr Julie Young, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Communities, said: “This policy update will enable us to expand the financial support we offer disabled and vulnerable residents, and their families, at a time when they may be facing increased hardship due to the current cost-of-living crisis.
“The new Discretionary Stairlift Grant, which will be available to all residents, removes the requirement for a means-test and will improve the speed at which this common adaptation is delivered, bypassing some of the delays resulting from a post-pandemic slow-down in the construction industry.”
Page last reviewed: 7 September 2022