Help at home
Small changes at home can make a big difference, helping someone stay safe and independent for longer.
A free home assessment
Ask adult social services at the council for an assessment for equipment or adaptations. You can call or ask online. An occupational therapist will visit, ask questions and walk round the home to see what's difficult. Mention everything, even small things like opening a cupboard. It helps to have a family member there.
It might recommend things like:
- grab rails, a stair rail or a bath lift
- a walk-in shower or a stairlift
- a ramp, or wider doorways
- a walking frame, perching stool or other equipment
- a personal alarm
In England, if the assessment finds someone needs equipment or an adaptation costing under £1,000, the council must provide it free.
Disabled Facilities Grants
For bigger changes, such as a stairlift, a level-access shower or a downstairs bedroom, a Disabled Facilities Grant from the council can help. It's for people with all kinds of needs, including age-related needs and dementia.
It's up to £30,000 in England and £36,000 in Wales. How much you get usually depends on household income and savings over £6,000. Don't start the work before the council approves the application, or you might not get a grant. It doesn't affect benefits. Apply through GOV.UK.
Blue Badges
A Blue Badge lets you park closer to where you're going. Some people qualify automatically because of benefits they get. Others can apply, including people with non-visible conditions that make journeys hard. Apply on GOV.UK. It costs up to £10 in England and £20 in Scotland, is free in Wales, and usually lasts up to 3 years. Our Blue Badge guide explains who qualifies and the rules.
In Scotland
Disabled Facilities Grants aren't available in Scotland. Instead, contact the council's social work team, who will arrange an assessment for equipment and adaptations.