Disabled Facilities Grant in Crawley

Can Crawley Borough Council Fund a Stairlift?

Crawley Borough 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
• Level-access showers
• Wheelchair-accessible kitchen adaptations
• Accessible toilet facilities

Crawley Homes (council) tenants follow a different adaptations process. Applicants must intend to live in the property for five years after the works.

How to Apply in Crawley

If the OT recommends an adaptation, the applicant's details can be passed (with permission) to Crawley's Private Sector Housing team to progress the grant.

Referral from the West Sussex County Council Occupational Therapist.

1. 1Occupational Therapist assessment (West Sussex County Council)
2. 2OT referral to Crawley's Private Sector Housing team
3. 3Means test and contribution calculated
4. 4Grant application
5. 5Approval before any work starts

How the Assessment Works

In most cases an Occupational Therapist assessment through West Sussex County Council is required first. Only an Occupational Therapist or suitably qualified person can refer to the council.

Assessment service: West Sussex County Council Occupational Therapy

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.

Crawley states that the grant is means-tested against income and savings and the applicant may need to contribute. The contribution is calculated before the application is processed, so you can decide whether to proceed.

The council provides an online tool: Crawley Borough Council online DFG calculator. Results are provisional — the council confirms the final means test.

Local policy: West Sussex Disabled Facilities Grant Policy 2024–2028.

What Happens After the Assessment?

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

Crawley states that grant assistance is not available for works that have already started.

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.

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 Crawley Borough Council.