Support available to help residents stay in their homes

If you, a family member or someone you know is having difficulty accessing or moving around your home or is worried about being able to stay in your home because your needs are changing, you may be eligible for financial support through the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG).

A DFG is a means-tested grant of up to £30,000 that allows homeowners or tenants (private and housing association) to have adaptations to their homes for eligible works to enable people to live independently and safely at home.

Common DFGs include level access showers, wet rooms, kitchen adaptations, stair lifts, external access ramps, through floor lifts, door widening and electronic door entry systems.
Residents need to explore their options with an occupational therapist to obtain an assessment as to what will be necessary and appropriate to meet their needs. If adaptations to the home are recommended, you may be able to claim support through a DFG.

Initial assessment happens through East Sussex County Council's social care team who then refer to the team at Hastings Borough Council if adaptations to the home is the most appropriate support.

Cllr Simon Willis, lead councillor for housing, said: "We revised our DFG policy last year so that more residents could apply for support through this scheme. I would encourage anyone who is struggling to live in their home because of disability or access reasons to check the website and find out more about whether you may be eligible for some funding to help with adaptations."

You can find out more about DFGs or you can call 01424 451335 to find out more about the grant process.

If you are having difficulty living in your home due to mobility or health issues, please contact the Health and Social Care team at East Sussex County Council. You can call them on 0345 6080191 from 8am to 8pm, seven days a week.

You can find out more.