Disabled Facilities Grant

katharinecollins

Hello, I'm in the process of applying for a grant for my son, who is 7 and a paraplegic.  We have a downstairs bedroom and bathroom but they are both too small for a wheelchair user, particularly as he gets older, and we've had the OT and the council agent in who measured the rooms.  Though they have confirmed the bedroom is too small by their standards they are pushing for us to use it anyway and are doing a lot of teeth sucking regarding the council not having lots of funds at this time.  I'd really like to know my rights so that we can push for an appropriate room, as I think they are just trying to save themselves money in the short term.  Has anyone had a similar experience or know the rights of a disabled individual to an appropriately sized downstairs bedroom?

Richard_Scope

Hi @katharinecollins
A very warm welcome to the community.
The OT should be independent in assessing the needs of your son and shouldn't recommend that a room that is too small for a wheelchair user to use safely is okay.
We have some information on Disabled Facilities Grants and other options that may be helpful for you.

Chloe_Alumni

Welcome to the community @katharinecollins! I hope Richard has been able to help. Please let us know how you get on and if there is anything else we can do to help.

katharinecollins

Thank you so much Richard_Scope and Chloe_Scope!  This is very helpful.

atlas47

Hi @katharinecollins

A very warm welcome.

You need to get an application for a DFG underway, with your local authority.

Do not listen to the “money is tight”, nonsense from anyone.

Ask the OT for a copy of their Assessment Report.

You should also check with your local building control section at your local authority.

There are set room dimensions that have to be adhered, for wheelchair users.

Especially to enable for your child, to have his future proofed.

Get your MP involved, copy him/her in with all correspondence, from the start.

Keep in touch.

Stay kind and be safe.

Best wishes

katharinecollins

Thank you everyone!  This has been extremely helpful, and steeled my resolve to make sure my son gets what he needs.  I also got in touch with Aspire, a spinal injury charity, and they were able to confirm that the OT should be impartial and the council's money issues have no bearing on providing for my son's needs.  Thanks again and have a lovely weekend! 

Chloe_Alumni

No problem @katharinecollins, how are things going?