Agenda item

Report of the Executive Director, Community & Children’s Services.

The Sub-Committee received a report of the Executive Director, Community & Children’s Services concerning the Housing Assistance Policy.

Officers provided an overview of the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG), a local authority grant aimed at funding essential adaptations to make homes suitable for disabled residents. The grant is available to owner-occupiers, private tenants, landlords, and housing associations, with a national upper threshold of £30,000. The City receives an annual allocation of just over £40,000.

Due to underutilisation of DFG funds, the City introduced a Housing Assistance Policy to clarify access and processes for residents, staff, and landlords. While the DFG is means-tested, the City has agreed to provide up to £12,000 without means testing, covering common adaptations such as stairlifts and wet rooms. The policy includes a 12-month review clause, which may be brought forward depending on budgetary needs. Jenny emphasised that residents in financial need will not be left unsupported, as those on means-tested benefits automatically qualify for full funding.

Officers also noted that residents wishing to self-fund adaptations can access project management support through the Home Improvement Agency, with Adult Social Care providing assessments, recommendations, and assistance with quotes and design. In discussion, A Member thanked Officers and asked whether items such as key safes and emergency buttons for residents with breathing difficulties would be covered. Officers clarified that such items fall under Adult Social Care funding, not the DFG.

Officers also mentioned upcoming borough-wide events to raise awareness of the policy, including sessions at Guildhall, Golden Lane, and Portsoken. Members requested to be informed of event dates to share with residents.

Further questions were raised about hospital discharge procedures. Officers explained that discharges are assessed case-by-case, with coordination between hospital staff and the discharge hub. While some adaptations can be arranged post-discharge, essential equipment and minor adaptations (e.g. grab rails, Telecare) are typically installed beforehand. They confirmed that delays in discharge are rare and usually due to family preferences rather than lack of provision.

Finally, a Member highlighted the need to align this policy with the Aids and Adaptations Policy discussed at the Housing Sub-Committee. It was suggested that a single, comprehensive policy be developed to avoid confusion and promote joined-up working across departments. Officers agreed to liaise with housing colleagues to ensure consistency in future drafts.

RESOLVED – That, the report be noted.