Rotherham Council is enhancing the quality of life for disabled residents with the upcoming approval of a new Aids and Adaptations Assistance Policy.
The policy, set to be agreed by the Cabinet, signifies the council’s commitment to empowering residents to live independently through the installation of home adaptations, such as grab rails, level access showers and wheelchair ramps.
The new policy will streamline access to support so as more residents can benefit, helping them to stay in their homes and to reduce pressures on local health and social care services.
The plans will help meet the council’s commitment to enable residents to live as independently as possible in their homes by creating an environment that supports individual needs. For the first time, rapid grants will be available to support fast discharge from hospital or to prevent readmissions, and where adaptations are not possible residents can be supported with relocation costs.
The policy has been created after engagement with council tenants, private tenants, and homeowners, as well as staff.
Under the new policy, residents will be able to benefit from:
- More accessible ways to secure financial support for a range of adaptations including ramps for improved accessibility, bathroom alterations to ensure safety and convenience, and kitchen adjustments for increased functionality.
- Simpler processes will make it easier for individuals and families to navigate the application procedure, and means testing will no longer be applied for some grants.
Rotherham Council Cabinet Member for Housing, Councillor Sarah Allen, said: “This policy shows our dedication to meeting the unique needs of our residents across the borough. We believe that everyone deserves to live independently, and this policy is a bold step towards making that a reality.”
The policy will be rolled out on 1 April 2024, following a three-month plan to prepare. The Council will closely monitor the policy’s impact and make adjustments as needed to ensure ongoing success.
For more information about this and to review other items up for discussion at December’s cabinet meeting, please visit: https://moderngov.rotherham.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=1103&MId=15996