Disabled Facilities Grant in Leeds

Can Leeds City Council Fund a Stairlift?

The Leeds City Council page we checked does not list specific adaptations. GOV.UK lists stairlifts as an example of an adaptation a DFG can cover, and the council / assessor determines eligibility.

Examples the council gives:

• Bathroom adaptations such as wet floor showers
• Kitchen adaptations such as lower work surfaces
• Other internal adaptations such as hoists
• External adaptations such as ramps and handrails

How to Apply in Leeds

After assessment, Social Care sends written confirmation that your referral has gone to the council's Health and Housing service, which then sends an acknowledgement letter with contact details.

1. 1Assessment by Adults and Health or Children and Families
2. 2Referral to Health and Housing
3. 3Acknowledgement letter from Health and Housing
4. 4Consideration of the adaptation

Leeds offers this help to both council and non-council tenants. Minor works such as grab rails or an extra banister rail are arranged separately and do not need an Occupational Therapist assessment.

How the Assessment Works

Leeds states you need an assessment from Adults and Health (or Children and Families for a child) to identify your needs.

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.

Leeds has a Private Sector Housing Assistance Policy covering housing assistance beyond the mandatory DFG. Check the council's current policy for details.

Other local assistance

• Minor works: Small items such as grab rails, additional banister rails or lever taps. Council tenants request these via the tenant portal; private-sector residents go through Social Care.

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.

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 Leeds

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 Leeds City Council.