A scheme to help disabled people live independently has been changed so it will reach more people.
Previously, means tested applicants for South Lakeland’s Disabled Facilities Grants could have been asked to contribute if they had £5,000. This has been increased to £10,000.
If the adaptation is for a child or young person there is no test of financial resource for the first £30,000.
Level-access showers account for about 80 per cent of the grants and the authority’s cabinet was told that the cost of all work in the past six months had been exceeding £5,000.
Councillor Helen Chaffey, portfolio holder for housing, said: “This is a response to increasing costs and a definite move on our part to make this worthwhile scheme which makes a real difference to people’s quality of life more accessible.
“Increasing the means test threshold will cut down waiting times for applications and the start of work.”
Typical adaptations include stairlifts, wet rooms and ramps.
Who is eligible?
- People registered or registerable as disabled (your social worker or occupational therapist can tell you this) and an owner-occupier or tenant. Social housing tenants may be able to get help from their housing association to adapt their homes;
- Those acting on behalf of a person with disabilities who lives in your home;
- A landlord acting on behalf of a tenant who has disabilities.
Councillor Suzie Pye, portfolio holder for health, wellbeing and poverty alleviation, said: “It is vitally important that this support is there for individuals who need it and that it is as accessible as possible. This change will remove any unnecessary delays which could cause inconvenience and suffering.
“I urge anyone who feels they could benefit from this scheme to have a look on our website and find out what is available and if they are eligible for this support.”
For more information on the scheme, go to: https://www.southlakeland.gov.uk/housing/housing-support-and-grants/disabled-facilities-grants/
