If you are an owner/occupier or private sector tenant living in the Dover District Council are then you may be eligible for a disabled facilities grant.
These grants are for works to a property to enable disabled person to manage more independently in their home. Works might include:
The Local Authority must satisfy itself that the work required are "necessary and appropriate" to meet the needs of the disabled occupant and in doing so will consult with the Social Services Department of Kent County Council through their Occupational Therapy Bureau.
The work should be considered "reasonable and practicable" bearing in mind the age and condition of the property, and is assessed by a Grant Officer from the Council.
The amount of grant available is dependent upon the income and savings of the disabled person and his/her spouse or if a dependent child his/her parent(s), depending on the circumstances. All grant applicants are means tested and this may mean that in some cases applicants will have to find some or all of the funding for the work. We normally carry out a preliminary means test so that applicants can have an early indication of their likely contribution.
Detailed advice is available via the Property Services Section Section on 01304 872454 or 872228. You will be asked a few questions to enable them to complete an inquiry form. Then we will advise you on how to contact the Kent County Council Occupational Therapy Bureau who will arrange an assessment of your needs (assuming that this has not already been done) and make any necessary recommendations. When we have received their report we will send you an application pack and arrange for a surveyor to visit.
Don't worry if you have no experience of builders or building work as
the Council supports Dover Care & Repair a home improvement agency
who will be only too pleased to assist you in the whole process from application
to completion. Their fees may also be included for the purposes of the
grant. Alternatively, you may appoint your own architect or surveyor to
help you with your application.
What if I don't qualify for financial assistance?
It may still be worth applying for a grant even if you don't qualify initially. Any contributions made for one grant can be taken into consideration for subsequent applications and this may reduce your contribution should a future application be made.
You may also be entitled to assistance from the KCC who have some separate funding to assist applicants.
Contact Private Sector Housing
Telephone: 01304 872454
E-mail: privatesectorhousing@dover.gov.uk
