More money available to help keep people safe at home

More people will be able to live safely in their own homes for longer thanks to additional funding for a scheme run by Folkestone & Hythe District Council.

The Government has allocated an additional £134,000 for the Council’s disabled facilities grants, which fund adaptations to help people to continue living independently rather than having to move.

Since January, a total of £400,000 has been spent adapting almost 50 homes. The extra money means the Council can fund specialist equipment, such as stairlifts, ramps or level-access showers, in dozens more.

Cllr Alan Ewart-James, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “We know many residents value their independence and want to stay in their own homes, where they often have good support systems nearby as well as a lifetime of memories.

“That’s why we work hard to help as many people as possible stay safe at home by funding adaptations for vulnerable, elderly or disabled residents.

“This work is often crucial in allowing people to be discharged from hospital, and in preventing them being readmitted, because it makes their home environment safe and accessible.

“I’m delighted that we have been able to secure additional funding and I know it will make a huge difference to those residents who are most in need of our help.”

An occupational therapist will assess someone’s needs as part of their grant application, and people can be referred by their GP or other medical staff, or via the Council’s private sector housing team.

The grants are means tested, meaning people who have savings or a higher income may be asked to pay towards the work.

A handyman service is also available, in partnership with Peabody South East, to help provide and fit smaller items such as handrails or key safes, and the scheme also funds a specialist at William Harvey Hospital who works to make patients’ homes safe for them to return to. Since this started in May, almost 60 people have been discharged earlier, freeing up hospital beds.

For further information about Disabled Facilities Grants, see https://www.folkestone-hythe.gov.uk/housing/disabled-facility-grants

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