Published: 15/07/2019
COPELAND Council has supported almost 150 residents to live safely and independently in their own homes during the last year, new figures reveal.
The council administered 148 Disabled Facilities Grants (DFGs) in 2018/19, to allow homes to be adapted to suit the occupant’s needs, often in response to a change in mobility levels, an accident or ill health.
Adaptations have included the installation of through-floor lifts, stairlifts and ramps, adapted bathrooms, door-widening and ground-floor extensions. Twenty of the adaptations have been carried out for children.
Councillor Mike McVeigh, Portfolio Holder for Strategic Housing, said: “As a council, we are extremely proud of our Housing team, not least in terms of the work done to administer DFGs.
“There is a tremendous amount of work that goes in to the process, from the original referral to us from an Occupational Therapist, through to assessment visits and drawing up a schedule of works to bring about the modifications.
“We get tenders for the work on the client’s behalf, draw down the funding, inspect the work as it takes place, and ultimately carry out a joint final assessment to ensure the client’s need are being met.
“There is a real sense of achievement when we are able to help someone in this way. This is just one example of the wonderful work that goes behind the scenes by a dedicated workforce at the council. It’s unseen by many, but the benefit it brings to those who need it – to people of all ages right across the borough - is life-changing.”
To contact the council's Housing team, telephone 01946 598300 or email info@copeland.gov.uk.
