Adaptations and equipment
Darlington Borough Council Social Care are experiencing a significant increase in demand for Occupational Therapy Assessments which has led to a delay for those awaiting assessment and referrals to the Home Improvement Agency (HIA) for Disabled Facilities Grants.
Therefore we are currently risk assessing people with progression of referrals identified for those with the highest risk and urgency at this time. We will continue to review this situation and please be assured we will aim to keep people informed. We will continue to work with people to explore alternative solutions to ensure people can maintain or regain their independence.
If you wish to fund and progress with works independently of Darlington Borough Council ; Durham Home Improvement Agency Project Management Service can support you with your adaptation.
If you choose to access this service, you will be required to fund the entire adaptation plus a 15% management fee.
Example
Cost of adaptation: £5,000
15% management fee: £750
Total payment: £5,750
This service requires for you to pay an initial £250 non-refundable deposit before any design work commences. The deposit will be taken off the final payment.
Durham HIA can be contacted via email at [email protected]
We can provide advice and information on adaptations and equipment to your home.
We will assess what adaptations you need and are eligible for.
Small adaptations
Small adaptations are free of charge.
These include:
- grab rails
- handrails
- half steps
- stair rails
Larger adaptations
Examples of larger adaptations include:
- stairlifts - see our stairlift information sheet [pdf document]
- bathroom conversions
To install these, you will need a recommendation from either
- a home improvement agency [external link].
- the housing department.
A financial assessment will be carried out to determine if you are eligible for a disabled facilities grant [pdf document].
Aids and equipment
Adult social care may also provide small pieces of equipment for areas of daily living.
These include:
- bathrooms
- toilets
- bedrooms
- living areas
- kitchens
Examples of issues equipment includes:
- bath seats,
- chair raisers
- raised toilet seats
These items are also provided free of charge.
- view the occupational therapy leaflet [pdf document].
- visit the Medequip website [external link].
- ask for an assessment call 01325 406111.
- take a care and support needs assessment online [external link]
The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG)
The DFG is a means tested statutory grant provided by the Government to undertake adaptations to owner occupied homes. Adaptations can include;
- walk in showers,
- stair lifts,
- ramps,
- or building extensions for disabled adults or children to enable them to live independently in their own homes.
Adaptations are arranged via a Shared Service Agreement with Durham County Council for the provision of a Housing Improvement Agency (HIA).