Disabled Facilities Grant Information Sheet

The PSHT administers the grant application and is responsible for making the decision about approving the grant and making payments. The team will also make the financial assessment which will confirm the amount of grant that is eligible and whether any contribution should be made by the disabled person. They can also act on your behalf as an agent for you providing help and advice on benefits and other sources for funding when the work isn't covered by the DFG. They will write the specification for the work, organise the tenders and supervise the work. Our staff have a wealth of experience in managing both the grant application and the design and build process. You are, of course, free to choose an alternative, but we advise that you discuss options and preferences with the Private Sector Housing Team and your occupational therapist before making a start.

As part of this role they need to ensure that all options have been considered at an early stage. Staff will liaise with the occupational therapist to conclude which options are necessary and appropriate to meet the needs of the disabled person. They will also consider whether the work is reasonable and practicable.

'Reasonable and practicable' means whether it is reasonable and practicable to carry out the works, having regard to the age and condition of the building. This means that they have to take into account the condition of the house and whether it is safe to live in. They also have to consider if the dwelling is suitable for adaptation due to its design, any planning constraints and the effect of any adaptations on other occupiers.

Where the options are unusual or complex a case conference involving other professionals will be arranged to ensure that the options are considered from several view points and the decision reached is justified and consistent in relation to the regulations that govern the terms of a disabled facilities grant.

Before approving an application the Private Sector Housing Team will need to be sure that the proposal is the most cost effective option for meeting the disabled person's needs and that the application is properly made.