Introduction
Castle Point Borough Council ("the Council") have designed a Council Housing Disabled Adaptations Policy to support those tenants who hold a tenancy with the Council, or permanent members of their household, to be independent in their home with daily activities, where they may require some practical help due to long-term health issues or disability.
How do I get a disabled adaptation in my home?
All disabled adaptations need to be recommended and supported by an Occupational Therapist (OT). You can be referred to an OT by your GP or your social worker. The OT will then come out and assess you in your home and send a report to us making recommendations for the disabled adaptations.
Does the Council have to approve the OT recommendation?
Yes. The Council will approve all minor adaptations (up to £1000 in value) straight away based upon the OT recommendation. Examples of minor adaptations include:
- grab rails
- handrails
- steps
- small ramps
- flashing doorbells
- painting doorframes a different colour
Where major adaptations such as:
- level access showers
- large ramps
- door widening
- stair lifts
- through floor lifts
- mechanical hoists
- adjustable height kitchens
are recommended and adaptations works are budgeted to cost £1,001 - £8,000, these will be assessed based on their nature. The Council’s contractor, alongside Occupational Therapists, conduct inspections to define the scope of works required for level access showers and kitchen adaptations. Other major adaptation are subject to a feasibility inspection conducted by a surveyor. If deemed viable, quotations are obtained, and then we issue an order.
Where adaptations works are budgeted to exceed £8,000 they will be considered by the Council’s Housing Service Disabled Adaptations Panel. Where a particular adaptation is not feasible to undertake for the property, the Council will refer to and work with the OT, the resident, and others to explore suitable, alternative options. This may include reviewing the adaptation or supporting a transfer to alternative accommodation. In the meantime, the Neighbourhood Management Officer will support the tenant and make sure they are safe in their home.
How long will I have to wait?
The Council aim to complete all minor adaptations (up to £1000 of work) within 28 days.
The Council aim to complete all other adaptations within 3 months of the date they are approved by the Council.