Promise to increase funds to adapt disabled people's homes shelved

The UK government has shelved plans to increase funding for home adaptations for disabled individuals in England.

The Disabled Facilities Grant, which assists with modifications like wet-rooms or stairlifts, has been fixed at a maximum of £30,000 since 2008, now worth roughly a third less due to inflation. The Local Government Association has indicated that this amount is inadequate for major renovations.

Despite an extra £100m allocated over two years, increased costs mean the grant's value has declined, affecting families like Alexa Woodcock's in Chester who is trying to raise funds for home adjustments for her son with cerebral palsy.

With building quotes far exceeding the grant's cap, Alexa is unable to afford the necessary changes without taking on substantial debt.

While children's parents can claim the full amount without an income assessment, adults face a means test, which the government had planned to review and simplify. In 2021, an increase in accessible funds was promised, but this has not materialized.

Experts and charity representatives like Anna Bird from Contact and Amy Little from Leonard Cheshire emphasize the significant negative impact of unsuitable housing on disabled individuals and their families, urging the government to adjust the grant with inflation and update the means testing process.

In contrast to England, Wales offers up to £36,000, Northern Ireland £25,000, and Scotland uses a different system altogether.

The government's Health and Social Care spokesperson highlights ongoing efforts to improve access to care and independent living, referencing the £100m supplement to the annual grant budget. However, despite these funds, disparities and limitations in support remain a challenge for many.