Disabled Facilities Grant Up For Grabs!

George, who has health and mobility problems, said the facilities would give him a new lease of life by allowing him to live more independently in his home.

Ribble Valley Borough Council provides grants of up to £30,000 for disabled people to alter their houses with a range of adaptations, from ramps and stair-lifts, to walk-in showers and even ground floor extensions, with up to 40 properties a year receiving assistance.

Rachael Stott, the council's housing strategy manager, said: "We work closely with the Occupational Therapy Department and Social Services to provide the grants.

"An occupational therapist will visit the property and decide which adaptations are necessary, then a financial means test assesses an applicant's ability to contribute towards the recommended work.

"The work is overseen by a technical officer or surveyor and this service has been warmly received, with users expressing a 96 per cent satisfaction rate."

George Almond said: "These adaptations will help me live a fuller and more independent life, and I would encourage anyone with mobility problems to inquire whether they may also be eligible for help. Everyone involved in this process has been fantastic and I can't thank the council enough."

As Ribble Valley Borough Council is the only authority in Lancashire that does not have a waiting list for disabled facilities grants, applications are usually processed quickly.

For further information or to book an assessment, phone Ribble Valley Borough Council's housing team on 01200 425111.

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