Need support with aids or adaptations to your home? Here's how we can help | Tenant news

Living with a long-term health condition or disability presents many challenges, but adapting your living space to meet your needs can help make a world of difference.

At Habinteg, we’re committed to ensuring that all our tenants have the support they need to live independently, with dignity and confidence.

Habinteg’s adaptations service

Our adaptations service is here to help you make your home more accessible and comfortable, providing both major and minor adaptations to improve your daily life.

Whether it’s a small fix or a big change, we can discuss it with you, give advice on funding and connect you with other helpful services.

You’ll be involved in every step, and we’ll keep you updated along the way.

Types of adaptations

Major adaptations are typically more complex changes, usually over £1,000. These are often funded through the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG), which is managed by your local authority.

The DFG process includes an assessment from an occupational therapist. With the assessment, application, and potentially planning permission, it can take several months to complete.There's a six-month legal time limit for the council to make a decision after receiving a complete application.

Examples of major adaptations include stairlifts, walk-in showers, and automated door systems.

Minor adaptations

Minor adaptations are smaller modifications, typically under £1,000. They can significantly improve daily life include grab rails, banister rails, and lever taps.

If we’re unsure of the cost of an adaptation, we’ll organise for a contractor to survey and quote for the work.

Habinteg usually fund these adaptations directly, and they are usually carried out within 20 days from date of order.

Anita’s Story

Habinteg tenant and wheelchair user Anita is one of the many tenants who has benefitted from our adaptations service. Anita lives in an accessible home where several key adaptations have been made to improve her independence and quality of life.

"The adaptations, especially in the bathroom and kitchen, give me so much independence,” said Anita. “The accessible shower makes taking a bath so much easier. The sink and cooker have also been adapted so I can adjust their height, which allows me to use them comfortably and safely."

For Anita, her ability to raise and lower the sink and cooker means she can prepare her meals with far more ease.

"These changes have given me confidence and freedom," Anita explains. "I feel able to make decisions for myself. I’m living independently, and it’s empowering. I feel like I’m truly part of the community."

How to apply

All Habinteg tenants who have long-term conditions or disabilities that affect their daily activities are eligible to apply for adaptations.

If you feel you’re in need of an adaptation in your home, contact your local Neighbourhood Coordinator or our Customer Services Team at Habinteg Direct on 0300 365 3100 or via direct@habinteg.org.uk. The first step is for us to work with you to assess your needs.

We assess each request on an individual basis, ensuring that the changes are both necessary and appropriate for you.

For more information, visit www.habinteg.org.uk/aids-and-adaptations.

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