New housing assistance policy to help more people across the borough
Rossendale Borough Council has launched its Housing Assistance Policy (HAP), designed to provide comprehensive housing assistance support to eligible residents across the borough.
The HAP replaces the previous Disabled Facilities Grant policy, enabling Rossendale residents to access a greater breadth of support
The HAP has several aims including:
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Provide home adaptations to help improve the lives of people with disabilities
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Reduce hospital admissions and allow early hospital discharge
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Reduce the need for domiciliary and residential care by allowing people with disabilities to live more independently in their own homes
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Provide advice, information and support regarding home adaptations to meet accessibility needs and provide a framework of assistance for vulnerable groups
Councillor Barbara Ashworth said: “This new policy has been designed to help far more people in a more practical way than the previous one, which was quite restrictive as to what the grant money could be used for.
“The handyperson service for instance will allow older people, over 65, disabled and vulnerable people to apply for work to be done that tradespeople often don’t want to undertake as they’re deemed to be too small or minor. It could be putting up a curtain rail, installing grab rails or temporary ramps, changing lightbulbs or moving furniture. These are small jobs really but they are things that can make a huge difference to helping someone live independently.”
As well as the handyperson service other grants available within the policy are:
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Disabled relocation assistance
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Hospital discharge grant
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Dwelling dementia grant
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Emergency works grant
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Safe and secure grant
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Affordable warmth grant
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Disabled facilities grant – this must come via an occupational therapist referral and can be used for home adaptations such as door widening, permanent ramps, hoisting equipment, level access showering, etc.
Christine O’Neil whose son Christopher is registered disabled said : “The funding from Rossendale Borough Council has been great for us. It's not just about adapting our home; it's about transforming our lives and making things easier for Christopher and us as a family.
“The Occupational Therapist came and did the assessment and made the application, so it wasn’t a hassle for us. We initially requested just a new changing table but after the assessment it was decided that the bathroom area needed reconfiguring to make it more suitable for Christopher’s needs. It’s made a huge difference and Christopher is really pleased with it too.
“Without this support we just wouldn’t have been able to make these adjustments.”
Cllr Ashworth added: “We’re aware that many people who may benefit from this policy may not be able to access the information or even know that they can get help with some of these things, so we’re encouraging family, friends, neighbours and anyone who thinks they may know someone who could benefit to get in touch and at least find out.”
Further information about the grants, eligibility and how to make an application can be found on the council's website https://bit.ly/RBCHAP