Disability

Adapting your home

Adapting your house is likely to be more expensive than simply installing pieces of special equipment and can be time consuming, so seek advice and weigh up the costs and benefits in advance.

You will be able to get a reduction on your council tax bill if you have an extra bathroom or kitchen for the benefit of the householder who has a disability, or another room which is mainly used by the person with a disability. However, if enough floor space exists for a wheelchair a disabled person will receive this reduction anyway by applying through the local district council.

Voluntary organisations, known as Care & Repair or Staying Put agencies, exist in many areas. If you think you will have difficulty arranging for home repairs, they can give you advice and assistance in obtaining grants and organising contractors. For organisations in your area see 'Local advice and assistance on adapting your home' below.