You should first discuss your situation with:

• your local district or borough council or
• your local social care office of West Sussex County Council. (Ask to speak to Adults’ CarePoint, who will be able to give you advice.)

An occupational therapist or an occupational therapy assistant from your local social care office will need to assess your needs. They will talk to you and your family or carer (if appropriate) about what adaptations might help you overcome your difficulties.

If the occupational therapist agrees that an adaptation is the best solution for you, they will make recommendations to the district or borough council.

Points to note

• You must not start the work until you have received formal approval of the grant.
• The district or borough council will set out the details of the alterations the disabled facilities grant can pay for.
• If necessary, architects or surveyors can produce plans and specifications for the work involved.
• You may need building regulations approval and planning permission for some adaptations.
• Councils can sometimes pay grants in stages as the work progresses.
• Normally the work must be completed within 12 months of the date the council gives you formal approval of your grant.

If you want to get more information, contact your local district or borough council office. The phone numbers are on the back page.