New housing grants policy
South Oxfordshire District Council has made it easier for people with disabilities or who are vulnerable to receive housing assistance grants and loans to help make their homes safer and more comfortable.
While the council says it has always provided a grants and loans service for vulnerable people to help their homes better suit their needs, the new Housing Assistance Grants and Loans policy introduced by the council this month has extended what’s on offer.
The maximum grant available has increased from £30,000 to £50,000 and a grant is also now available for people living with dementia. In addition, the system is to be streamlined with new technology aiming to improve the service and reduce the waiting times for work to be carried out.
The new policy aims to:
- support more disabled residents to live independently by improving access and movement around their homes
- reduce hospital admissions and enable early hospital discharges
- reduce the need for residential care by allowing people with disabilities to live independently in their own homes
- reduce fuel poverty and the effects of living in cold homes
- support tailored home adaptations for those who need them including those suffering with dementia
To apply for a Disabled Facilities Grant, the first step is to contact an occupational therapist to see if someone is eligible. For more information on applying for grants and loans please see here.
