What is a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG)?
A Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is a means tested statutory grant from local authorities to help pay for essential home adaptations so disabled people can live safely and independently at home. Children under 18 are not means tested.
The grants
- are administered by district/borough councils
- are up to £30,000 in England
- cover adaptations such as stairlifts, level-access showers, ramps, widened doors, and accessible kitchens/ bathrooms.
Grants cannot be awarded retrospectivity.
Who can apply?
Grants are available for people of all ages who have a disability or long-term health condition.
Eligible applicants include:
- homeowners
- private tenants
- housing association tenants
- landlords applying on behalf of a tenant
If you live in council housing adaptations are still assessed by an Occupational Therapist but the works are provided by your council landlord.
Who assesses for a grant?
The assessments are completed by Occupational Therapists (OT) or by trained assessors that come and assess yours needs. Local housing authorities (your current district and borough council) will approve any funding.
In Suffolk, assessments for adults over 18 are usually arranged through Independent Living Suffolk (ILS). ILS supports people to remain independent at home by providing:
- OT assessment and advice on major adaptations to your home
- recommendations to district and borough councils to support DFG applications
- housing advice if your home cannot be adapted
Other teams that support DFG assessment include:
- district and borough councils (with grant administration and support with organising the adaptations).
- Adult Social Care (who complete any care assessments).
- housing/ home improvement agencies who are usually the district and borough council teams
DFG and children services
Grants are available for children (under 18) and these grants are not means tested. They can be used to fund major adaptations to your home including bathrooms, hoists and bedroom changes.
