The Cabinet considered a report of the Executive Director (Adults and Communities) seeking approval of the Disabled Facilities Grants Policy for Southend-on-Sea Borough Council.

Resolved:

1. That the removal of a means test for grants under £6,000 (£6,500 for a  curved stairlift) to speed up prevention process for applicants, be approved.

2. That the circumstances where a discretionary disabled facilities grant can be considered, including relocation grants, special assistance grants and top-up grants, be approved.

3. That the Disabled Facilities Grants Policy document be adopted with immediate effect.

Reasons for decision:

To adopt the Disabled Facilities Grants (DFG) Policy and remove the means test for adaptations under £6,000 and stair lifts (average cost of which is £6,500).

Other options:

1.  Not to introduce a discretionary Disabled Facilities Grant policy, continuing to only provide the mandatory elements of the DFG.

2. To continue to means test for all grants as per the mandatory requirements.

Note: This is an Executive Function

Eligible for call-in to: People Scrutiny Committee

Cabinet Member: Cllr Gilbert