Personal Independence Payments (PIP) not only provide monthly income from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) but also open the door to other helpful benefits. One important benefit available is the Disabled Facilities Grant, designed to make homes safer and more accessible for disabled individuals.
With the right support, many people can continue living independently in their own homes instead of moving to care facilities.
What Are Disabled Facilities Grants?
Disabled Facilities Grants are offered by local councils to help make homes more suitable for disabled residents. The amount you can receive depends on where you live:
- In England, the maximum grant is £30,000.
- In Wales, it can go up to £36,000.
- In Northern Ireland, the limit is £25,000.
Your local council will check if you qualify for the grant and decide how much you can receive.
The grant can be paid in parts as the work is done, or you can get it in full after the work is completed. Councils approve work that is considered essential to help a disabled person live an independent and safe life.
How Does the Grant Work?
The grant is means-tested, which means the council will look at your income and savings before deciding the amount.
If the grant is for a disabled child, the parents’ income usually does not affect the application.
Important:
If you start any work on your property before your grant is approved, you are at risk of your application being rejected. You might also need to apply separately for any planning permissions or building regulations.
Who Can Apply for the Grant?
You may qualify if you are:
- Physically disabled
- Living with a hearing, visual, or speech impairment that affects your daily life
- Mentally ill
- Registered as disabled under Section 29 of the National Assistance Act 1948 (for those aged over 18)
- Registered as a disabled child under the Children Act 1989
If you are a tenant, you will need your landlord’s permission to make changes. Landlords can refuse, but they must give a proper reason or they could be breaking Disability Discrimination Laws.
What Can the Grant Be Used For?
The grant is usually used for houses but can also be applied to houseboats, caravans, or other permanent homes.
It covers important adaptations such as:
- Widening doors
- Installing ramps
- Improving access to rooms and facilities
- Installing stairlifts
- Adapting heating or lighting controls
For smaller changes like:
- Fitting grab rails
- Installing motion sensor lights
- Creating dropped curbs
your local council may offer a smaller home adaptation grant instead.
Free Home Assessment
Before approving the grant, the council will usually arrange a free home assessment.
An expert will visit your home to suggest the safest and most suitable adaptations. Sometimes they may recommend changes that are different from what you had first thought but are more helpful for your daily life.
You can book a free home assessment through the Gov.uk website.
If you receive PIP and need changes to your home, the Disabled Facilities Grant can be a great support. It helps make homes safer, easier to move around, and better suited to your needs. Whether you need small adjustments or major work, your local council can guide you through the process. Always wait for your grant approval before starting any work, and don’t forget – home assessments are free and easy to book. Taking advantage of this help can mean staying comfortably and safely in your own home for years to come.
FAQs
Who is eligible for a Disabled Facilities Grant?
Disabled adults, disabled children, and individuals registered as disabled under official laws are eligible. Tenants can apply but need landlord permission.
How much money can I get from the grant?
In England, up to £30,000; in Wales, up to £36,000; and in Northern Ireland, up to £25,000, depending on your local council.
Is the grant means-tested?
Yes, councils check your income and savings. If applying for a child, parents’ income is usually not considered.
Can I start home work before getting grant approval?
No, starting work before your application is approved could result in the grant being refused.
Where can I book a home assessment?
You can book a free home assessment for adaptations through the official Gov.uk website.
