The Association will fund where possible all minor adaptations costing less than £500.
Westcountry is working to meet the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) requirements very much in the spirit of the legislation. A working party of residents - with direct experience of disabilities - and staff has addressed the needs of disabled residents in both the home and Westcountry offices, estates and projects.
It was important to involve residents with disabilities on the working party because they knew what they were talking about and that is why this group has been such a success.
Westcountry has really listened and taken disability equality on board: the Association builds to the Housing Corporation 'scheme work' development standard for mobility. Design should assist housing sustainability for future possible adaptations. Westcountry ensures houses have wider doors and ceilings strong enough to take hoists.
If it is between £500 and £1,000 worth of work then an occupational therapy assistant’s assessment is required and if it is a major adaptation (more than £1,000 worth then you need to ask to be assessed by your local Social Services occupational therapist. They will send a report to Westcountry who will send a Property or Maintenance Surveyor to assess your house.
Adaptations could range from grab rails to ramps through to entire kitchens. Work can be funded by a Disabled Facilities Grant or from the Association’s own funds subject to budget constraints. Please note that applications for Disabled Facilities Grants are means tested.
If you have any queries regarding the provision of adaptations for your home, please contact the Asset Management Department on 01803 200300.