Advice

Louise1970

Hi all, Not done this before but I need my front garden adapted but I am in a catch 22. No one seems to want to help my. I cannot get it done until I have a wheelchair. But if I get a mobility scooter I cannot get it in my garden. I cannot afford to pay for it on my benefits. Anyone else had this problem?. I have had the OT's out and I dont fit the bill for a wheelchair put i get full pip for my mobility. I have not been out the house for over a year because of the steps and my front garden. Anyone got any advice please. Thanks

PracticeWotUPreach

Thank you for sharing what you’re going through — it sounds incredibly frustrating and isolating. You’re definitely not alone in this kind of situation, and it’s unfortunately a common issue people face when trying to access mobility aids or home adaptations while living on benefits.
Have you tried contacting your council’s housing adaptations or social services team and ask to be assessed for a Disabled Facilities Grant.

Louise1970

Yes I have spoken to them all, even my doctor. And have been told until I have a wheelchair then there is nothing they can do. That is why I am in a catch 22 situation. Thanks for replying

Amberpearl

I'm. So sorry that's just awful

Can you get freinds parents to do it for you

Louise1970

No it need doing properly and would cost a fortune i

Kimi87

Have you had several quotes from recommended tradespeople?

Does it need to be a costly landscaping job, would some form of custom made ramp be suitable?

Perhaps saving up to get it done would be an option?

You could also approach a local credit union for a loan, who tend to offer more favourable repayment rates.

Or a grant may be available

https://grants-search.turn2us.org.uk/

Louise1970

No, it's a full revamp would cost over 10 grand. I would be saving for the rest of my life. Had six quotes to send to the council, but I still cannot get any help. I am writing to my MP today about it. Let see how far this gets me.

Holly_Scope

Hi @Louise1970 sorry to read about your situation. Looking at a possible grant to support might be an option. I can see you've been provided a link but here's another for the Government website which might also be helpful - Disabled Facilities Grants: Overview - GOV.UK. I hope you're able to get something sorted.

Louise1970

I have looked into this already, but because I dont fit the criteria for a wheelchairs. You need to be on oxygen or servery disabled. It's all very complicated and the new changes dont seem be to working out for so.e people. Like I said i am going to email my local MP today. Wish me luck x

Holly_Scope

It's such a shame that the support isn't available unless you fit that criteria because there's clearly a need. Definitely wish you the best. Will you let us know how you get on please?