Home adaptations can be small or large, but are always installed with the goal of improving the wellbeing and independence of the resident. Councils are anxious to provide home adaptations where possible to prevent unnecessary health and social care costs as a result of avoidable falls and accidents.
A care needs assessment from Essex council might recommend some home adaptations. Where these adjustments would cost under £1000 to install, the council will often provide them for free. These minor adaptations might include, for example, a short stair grab rail or temporary ramp.
In some cases, more major adaptations might be deemed necessary for maintaining the health and wellbeing of your parent. These can be anything from widening doorways, to installing level-access showers, or even, in some cases, small extensions. Funding these more expensive adaptations requires a means-tested assessment to determine eligibility for a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG).
This page will help you find out how you can get a home assessment, the first step in finding out what home adaptations might benefit your relative and how to secure funding.
Getting a Home Assessment in Essex
Local councils in Essex can provide financial support for minor home adaptations, up to the cost of £1000. Organising a home assessment from an occupational therapist is the first step your relative needs to take in order to access this support.
Home assessments are carried out by occupational therapists, who will assess the home and discuss with you and your relative about their needs, to determine what changes are required to make their home safer. You or your relative can contact Essex County Council’s Adult Social Care Team to request a home assessment from an occupational therapist by calling their team on 03456 037630 or emailing them on [email protected].
Grants Available in Essex for Larger Home Alterations
Disabled Facilities Grant
The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is reserved for home adaptations of up to £30,000 in England and is a means-tested, government funding scheme. That means that the amount of money your relative will receive towards any home adaptations is dependent on their savings. Residents can still apply for home adaptations and a DFG if they are renting, as long as they plan to live in the property for at least 5 years.
To apply for the DFG, you will need to have received an assessment from Essex County Council’s occupational therapists. As well as recommending what home adaptions they feel are necessary, they can also inform the local authority that your relative is eligible for a Disabled Facilities Grant.
You can request a visit from an occupational therapist by calling Essex County Council’s Social Care Team on 03456 037630 or by emailing them at [email protected].
