The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is a Government-funded programme designed to help pay for essential home adaptations that improve accessibility and support independent living.

The scheme helps fund practical changes to properties where a disabled person requires adaptations to move around safely and use their home more easily.

Support is generally delivered through local councils across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Scotland operates similar arrangements through local authority support systems.

For adults, funding is usually means-tested and may depend on household income and savings. Different rules can apply where disabled children are involved.

What Adaptations Could Be Included?

The grant can support a wide range of home adaptations depending on individual needs and recommendations.

Mobility & Access Improvements

Support may include:

  • Wheelchair ramps
  • Door widening works
  • Stairlifts
  • Through-floor lifts
  • Improved access to outdoor areas and entrances

Bathroom & Kitchen Adaptations

Works may include:

  • Level-access showers
  • Wet rooms
  • Specialist baths and sinks
  • Adapted kitchens
  • Accessible work surfaces and units

Safety & Independent Living Improvements

Additional adaptations may include:

  • Heating and lighting controls
  • Door entry and security systems
  • Electrical alterations to improve accessibility and safety

The type of support available depends on household needs and local authority assessment.

Who Could Qualify?

You may qualify where:

  • You or someone living in the property has a disability requiring home adaptations
  • The adaptations are necessary to support safer and more independent living
  • Eligibility requirements set by your local authority are met

Additional information:

  • Available to homeowners, tenants and landlords
  • Adults are generally subject to a means assessment
  • Disabled children under 18 are usually not means-tested

Funding limits can vary depending on where you live.

Current maximum grant levels commonly include:

  • England – up to £30,000
  • Wales – up to £36,000
  • Northern Ireland – up to £25,000

Local authority arrangements and support levels may differ.

How The Process Works

Step 1 – Contact Your Local Council

Applications are usually handled through local authority housing or adaptations services.

Step 2 – Assessment Of Needs

An occupational therapist may assess the property and identify what adaptations are required.

The assessment helps determine what improvements may be appropriate.

Step 3 – Application & Financial Review

A formal application may require:

  • Household information
  • Income details
  • Savings information
  • Medical or supporting information where relevant

Adults are generally subject to a financial assessment, while different rules may apply for children.

Step 4 – Approval Process

The local authority reviews the application and confirms whether funding support can be provided.

Funding arrangements may vary depending on circumstances.

Step 5 – Installation & Completion

Approved contractors complete the agreed adaptation works.

Local authorities may inspect completed works before final funding arrangements are processed.

Additional Information

  • Homeowners and tenants may qualify
  • Landlord consent may be required for rented properties
  • Funding levels can vary between local authorities
  • Occupational therapist recommendations are commonly required

Need Information On Current Grants & Support?

Support schemes and local authority arrangements can vary over time.

Contact Grants Gateway to discuss current grants and support routes that may apply to household and property circumstances.

Available support and eligibility requirements can vary depending on location and individual circumstances.