Aids and adaptations policy
We offer homes to be proud of with a choice of facilities and services that are tailored to individuals as their lives change. The safety of our customers is our main priority. Sometimes an adaptation or specialist equipment is needed to achieve this.
When a customer needs an aid or adaptation, we’ll work with them and, where appropriate, other organisations, to arrange an assessment for an adaptation or a move to a more suitable home. We’ll give practical support and advice, so customers get the help they need.
Who this policy applies to and what it covers
This policy applies to:
- Our customers who need an aid or adaptation in their home.
The policy specifically covers:
- Helping customers with adaptations in their home, for mental or physical health reasons. This is separate to alterations made to homes.
Our aids and adaptations policy
Minor adaptations
We will fund and carry out minor adaptations. These are usually non- structural alterations such as grab rails and will typically cost up to £1,500.
We’ll complete minor adaptations in line with our repairs performance targets.
Improving the customer’s independence in their home is our main priority. Decisions on minor adaptations will be based on whether the home is suitable to adapt or if it would be better for them to move to a more suitable home. We also consider any costs for long- term maintenance. We will consider the customer’s wishes in these decisions.
Major adaptations
Major adaptations usually involve structural work such as extensions or the installation of wet rooms.
An occupational therapist will need to carry out an assessment before we can agree to a major adaptation. This is to make sure the customer will benefit from the adaptation and that the home is suitable.
We will support customers applying for a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) or other available discretionary grant. Or, if it would be better for the customer, we’ll help them move to a more suitable home.
As the DFG is means tested, there may be a customer contribution required. We’ll consider covering this cost on a case-by-case basis, considering budget availability and the value for money of the adaptation. The criteria for DFG can be found here: Disabled Facilities Grants - GOV.UK
Servicing and maintenance of equipment
We will service and maintain specialist equipment, such as stair lifts and level access showers, where the installation was approved by us. In some cases, we may apply a service charge to do this.
Where we can no longer maintain equipment, we’ll support the customer to apply for a DFG or any available discretionary grants for a replacement.
We will re-use adaptation equipment wherever possible.
Letting of adapted homes
We want to make the best use of our homes. We aim to let adapted homes to people who will benefit from the adaptations.
Responsibilities
The Head of Customer Experience & Home Services is accountable for all aspects of aids and adaptations and is responsible for the development and review of this policy, making sure that it meets all regulatory requirements and guidance. The policy will be reviewed every three years.
The Head of Asset Investment is responsible for the delivery of aids and adaptations, maintaining accurate records and reporting.