Disabled Facilities Grant in Bristol

Can Bristol City Council Fund a Stairlift?

Bristol City Council lists stairlifts among the adaptations that may be funded. Stairlifts may qualify where the council considers the adaptation necessary and appropriate.

Examples the council gives:

• Stairlifts and through-floor lifts
• Ramps, rails and step lifts
• Door widening for wheelchair access
• Lower kitchen units
• Level access showers and bathroom changes
• Improved heating

How to Apply in Bristol

Homeowners and private tenants apply after an OT assessment recommends an adaptation. Bristol describes a stairlift as a simple adaptation that is usually straightforward to apply for.

Adults can use the council's online Adult Care Referral form or phone Care Direct.

1. 1Adult Care Referral or child OT referral
2. 2Occupational Therapist assessment
3. 3Referral to the Accessible Homes Team
4. 4Grant application pack
5. 5Means test and approval
6. 6Work

Council tenants follow a separate adaptations route after assessment.

How the Assessment Works

Arrange an Occupational Therapist assessment — adults through Care Direct, children through Children and Young People's Services.

Assessment service: The Occupational Therapist either recommends simple equipment or refers you to the council's Accessible Homes Team for an adaptation.

How Much Could You Get?

The statutory maximum for a DFG in England is £30,000. This is a maximum, not a guaranteed award — the amount depends on the applicant's circumstances.

Bristol states the grant is means tested under DFG legislation and you may have to contribute towards the cost of works.

Bristol offers a Discretionary Adaptation Assistance grant for works not covered by a DFG, such as repairing existing adaptations or urgent works for a terminally ill person.

Other local assistance

• Discretionary Adaptation Assistance (DAA): For works outside the DFG, including repairing adaptations already in the property. Conditions apply.

What Happens After the Assessment?

GOV.UK states that a council must give a decision within six months after receiving a valid application.

Do not start the work before the council approves it — starting early can affect whether a grant is available.

If you own and live in the property and receive more than £5,000, Bristol registers the grant with the local land registry. Selling within 10 years of completion may mean repaying some of it.

Understand the Stairlift You Might Need

While you wait for an assessment, it can help to know whether a stairlift will fit your stairs, the difference between straight and curved stairlifts, and typical stairlift costs.

Local guide: Stairlifts in Bristol

What If You Don't Qualify for Funding?

If you are not eligible for grant funding, need a stairlift more quickly, or simply want to understand the private cost as well, you can request a no-obligation stairlift quotation. This is separate from the council and is not endorsed by Bristol City Council.