Menu
You may be looking to self-fund your home improvements, or you may be looking to apply for a DFG. If so, we have provided some information on the grant below along with links to your local authority DFG website pages.
What is a DFG?
DFG stands for Disabled Facilities Grant. It is a means-tested grant for people with a disability of any kind. The grant provides financial assistance to enable a disabled or chronically sick person to make changes to their home so they are able to living an independent life. Both tenants and homeowner can apply.
How much is available?
Depending on the area in which you live, as of January 2020. the DFG in Wales can be up to £36,000 and in England up to £25,000. The amount available to you will depend on the results of your means test application and the cost of the works needed. A local authority may choose to provide a financial contribution or cover the total cost up to the grant limit.
What can a DFG be used for?
A DFG is intended to help fund home adaptations to meet an individuals needs to enable them to continue living in their own home. Some examples of work may include the following:
stairlifts
home lifts
step lifts
bathroom installations and modifications
converting a downstairs room into a bathroom
ceiling track hoists
widening of doorways to help with wheelchair access
hand rails
ramps
improving central heating, or adapting heating or lighting controls to make them easier to use.
Will I qualify for a DFG?
The amount of financial aid you will receive depends on your household income and savings. The means test applies to anyone over the age of 18 years and takes into account the income and saving of both spouse or partner. The first £6000 of household savings are exempt from the means test.
When considering a grant application, your local authority will be looking to ensure the proposed works are necessary and appropriate to meet the needs of the disabled person, and feasible given the age, condition and location of the property.
How long does the DFG process take?
The application process will vary depending on your local authority, so it would be best to contact them to find out how the application process works and how long it would take to reach a decision. Smaller projects are likely to be approved quicker than more costly works. A recent Wales online article stated that the average time to deliver a DFG in Wales was 207 days.
How do I apply for a DFG?
You will have to contact your local authority to discuss the DFG application process. We have provided some links to local authority DFG pages below, or you can use the following link to find your local council.