These grants are mandatory housing grants, and awarded to enable applicants to have access to and around their homes, or to use essential facilities in the home to enable them to live independently. Whilst it is recognised that a DFG is a mandatory grant it is the Council's intention, were possible, to investigate all housing options that may be available to the applicant before awarding a DFG. A disabled housing need can be met in a number of different ways and all options will be investigated to identify which will meet the needs of the applicant in the most cost effective and suitable way, whist acknowledging that DFGs are a mandatory grant. As and when demand outstrips the budget a prioritised waiting list will be developed in partnership with Occupational Therapy services to ensure that adaptations are provided to those in greatest need.
Eligible Applicants
- Any applicant registered or capable of being registered as disabled (as classified under the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970) and requires adaptations to be provided.
- Applicants can be property owners or tenants. Some landlords may apply on behalf of tenants.
- Eligible applicants can also include those living in park homes and houseboats.
Qualifying Criteria
- A referral from the Occupational Therapist (OT) via Social Services confirming that the works are ‘necessary and appropriate' is required. This referral will specify the works required.
- Entitlement to a Disabled Facility Grant is mandatory but before approval the Council has to be satisfied that the relevant works are both necessary and appropriate for the Registered Disabled Person, and also that it is reasonable and practicable to carry out the works.
- A permanent and legal residence including dwellings, mobile homes, caravans and houseboats.
Conditions
- Works must be recommended by an Occupational Therapist and be necessary and appropriate to meet the needs of the disabled occupant.
- The works must be reasonable and practicable to carry out having regard to the age and condition of the dwelling or building.
- Subject to a financial assessment of resources.
- There is no age limit for properties and other than the means test there is no prior qualifying.
- The Council will use its powers to place a limited charge against the property where the DFG grant exceeds £5,000 up to a ceiling of £10,000. Repayment of the grant up to a maximum of £10,000 will be required if the property is sold within 10 years of the grant being awarded.
- A means test will not be applied to parents where adaptations are required for a disabled child.
- Proof of title required.
- Landlord consent would be required were applicable.
Maximum Grant
£30,000.00
Applying
If you believe you are entitled to this grant then you should contact your GP and request that you are referred to Community Occupational Health who can advise the Care and Repair Agency on the type of adaption required. If you would like further advice about the Disabled Facility Grant (DFG) then Millbrook Health administer this grant on behalf of Worcester City Council.
Millbrook Health 03301248205 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.