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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.

Local authority grants

Social services departments can provide funding for some adaptations, particularly smaller items such as handrails. Contact your local social services for further information.

Local social services
Find information on social services from the list of local councils on the Directgov website.

Disabled Facilities Grants

The largest source of funding for home adaptations in England and Wales is through the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) programme. The programme is operated by the housing departments of local councils. The grant is means-tested, so some people will have to pay some or all of the cost of adaptations.

Disabled Facilities Grants
Information about the scheme from the website of the Department for Communities and Local Government website.
Housing departments
Find information on housing departments 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.

Applications can be made to either

MS Society Grants Team
Local MS Society branches

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.

People receiving certain benefits, such as Disability Living Allowance, can claim a pack of free low energy light bulbs from Powergen. Contact Powergen – 0845 4561158 for more details.