Housing adaptations and grants
For some people, the effects of MS mean that it be necessary to make adaptations to the home. An occupational therapist can suggest changes that may make life at home easier and can advise on funding. There are several sources of help with the costs, though these are means tested and for some people will cover a proportion of the cost. It is best to contact the various possible sources of help before starting any work as grants are usually only given in advance.
Adapting your home
Disabled Facilities Grants are provided through local councils. Grants are available up to a to a limit of £30,000. Depending on financial circumstances, the applicant may be expected to pay some of the costs.
Social services departments can provide funding for some adaptations, particularly smaller items such as handrails. Contact your local social services for further information.
- Disabled Facilities Grants
- Information about Disabled Facilities Grants, other sources of financial help and advice on how to go about getting the work done. on the Directgov website.
- Local social services
- Find information on social services from the list of local councils on the Directgov website.
Home Improvement Agencies (HIA)
Locally based organisations offering support for people making adaptations or improvements to their home. These organisations can offer help with finding funding and managing the work. In some areas, these agencies are called Care & Repair or Staying Put.
- Foundations
- Information on local Home Improvement Agencies
MS Society
Can award grants towards home adaptations or repairs. Applications should be submitted after the decision for a Disabled Facilities Grant is known. See the Grants and financial help page for information on applying for grants from the MS Society.
Help with fuel costs
The Home Heat Helpline is a service run by the Energy Retail Association to advise customers in receipt of benefits about the help on offer with fuel bills. For information, ring 0800 33 66 99.
Most fuel suppliers offer reduced rates to low-income or vulnerable customers, such as older people, or people with long-term ill health. These reduced rates are known social tariffs. Each supplier has its own set of rules about who qualifies for the reduced rates. For more information, contact your fuel supplier and ask for details of their social tariffs.