Disabled Facilities Grant in North Yorkshire

Can North Yorkshire Council Fund a Stairlift?

North Yorkshire 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:

• Installing a stairlift or through-floor lift
• Replacing a bath with a level-access shower
• Widening doorways
• Installing a ramp
• Safety measures

Homeowners, tenants and landlords applying on behalf of a tenant can apply. The disabled person should plan to live in the property for at least five years, or a shorter period if health circumstances require it.

How to Apply in North Yorkshire

Start with a needs assessment. After assessment and referral, the application is progressed with North Yorkshire Council.

1. 1Assessment
2. 2Referral
3. 3Application
4. 4Home visit / planning where required
5. 5Approval
6. 6Work

North Yorkshire states that for simple works such as stairlifts, a home planning visit may not always be required.

How the Assessment Works

A trained professional such as a Trusted Assessor or Occupational Therapist assesses the person's needs.

Assessment service: Where major adaptations are needed, the council's adult social care service states that an Occupational Therapist carries out an assessment, which also looks at whether a DFG may be available.

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.

North Yorkshire states that DFGs are means-tested and that household income and savings over £6,000 can affect the applicant's contribution. Only the income and savings of the disabled person and their spouse or partner are considered, and people receiving certain benefits (such as Universal Credit, guarantee Pension Credit or Housing Benefit) do not have to contribute.

The council states there is no means test for works up to £30,000 where the adaptation is for a child under 19.

Other local assistance

• Handyperson service: North Yorkshire's adult social care pages describe a handyperson service for smaller changes such as grab rails. Funding for this depends on a separate social care assessment.

What Happens After the Assessment?

The council states that once a valid application is received it has six months to approve it.

Do not start the work before the council approves the application — 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 Skipton

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 North Yorkshire Council.