Overview
You could get a grant from your council if you’re disabled and need to make changes to your home. For example if you:
are physically disabled·have a learning disability
have age-related needs
are autistic
have a cognitive impairment, like dementia
have a progressive condition, like motor neurone disease
have a terminal illnes·have a mental health condition
You might need to:
widen doors and install ramps or grab rails
improve access to rooms and facilities, for example with a stairlift, or level access shower
improve access to your garden
build an extension, for example a downstairs bedroom
provide a heating system suitable for your needs
adapt heating or lighting controls to make them easier to use
A Disabled Facilities Grant won’t affect any benefits you get.
What you'll get
How much you get usually depends on your:
household income
household savings over £6,000
Disabled children under 18 can get a grant without their parents’ income being taken into account. Contact your local council for more information.
Landlords can get a grant without their income and savings being taken into account. The council may ask for the property to be let to another disabled person if the current tenant moves within 5 years.
How much you can apply for
England Up to £30,000
Wales Up to £36,000
Northern Ireland Up to £25,000
Some councils may give more.
Depending on your income, you may need to pay towards the cost of the work to the property.
You can apply for another grant for the same property if you need to. For example, if your condition changes.
You might not get any grant if you start work on your property before the council approves your application.
How you’ll be paid
You’ll be paid either:
in instalments, as the work progresses
in full, when the work is finished
The council may pay the contractor directly or give you a cheque to pass on to them. They’ll agree this with you when they approve your application.
When you’ll be paid
You’ll be paid either:
when you and the council are happy with the finished work
when you give the council the invoice, demand or receipt for payment from the contractor
Normally, if you (or a relative) do the work the council will only accept invoices for materials or services you’ve bought.
For further information
Government website
Local Authority Grants
search “Disabled Facilities Grants” on your local authority’s website. Your local authority will be whichever Council you pay your Council Tax to.
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