BCHFHome alterations & adaptions
Adaptations for disabled or older people
We want older or disabled residents to live independently in their homes for as long as possible
Do you find it difficult to do any of the following?
- Get in and out of your home?
- Use the kitchen or bathroom?
- Use taps, heating controls, window latches and door handles?
Our home adaptations service
Aids and adaptations in your home can help you be more independent. If you have difficulty getting around your home or using the facilities we may be able to help you manage more easily and safely. Often simple changes can make a big difference. We can fit things like grab rails, stair rails, flashing doorbells, lever taps, safety glass and dropped kerbs. We can also do minor alterations to bathrooms and kitchens. We aim to get these small adaptations done with the minimum delay.
Major work
If your home needs more major work we can help you get an assessment from an occupational therapist. Some work we can do ourselves so that it can be completed as quickly as possible. If the work is more expensive we will help you contact Bristol City Council to see if you would be eligible for a disabled facilities grant. This will take longer, but we will stay in touch with you to make sure you receive the help you need within a reasonable time.
Can I move?
We know that most people prefer to stay in their own home and we will do everything we can to make sure that happens. However, in a minority of cases your home may not be suitable for the adaptations you need or another type of property would be more suitable. Some people would prefer to move. We will discuss all the options with you to come up with the best solution for your circumstances. If you want to move we will try to help you find a more suitable home.
Who can use the service?
You can use the service if either you, or someone in your household, has a long term illness, a disability or is an older resident.
To find out if we can help, please contact Rachel Cobb on 0117 9319773 or by emailing .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) - or talk to your Housing Officer.
For further information, please download the Staying Independent In Your Home leaflet at the bottom of this page.
Alterations and Improvements
You may make alterations to your home provided you get our written permission before you start. You may also need to get Building Regulation Approval and/or Planing Consent from the local council. Before we give our consent the Technical Services Manager or surveyor may need to discuss your proposals with you. We won't refuse permission without good reason.
Alterations/improvements include:-
- Changing kitchen units or bathroom fittings, installing showers.
- Changing or removing doors.
- Moving radiators.
- Knocking down walls to change rooms.
- Putting up a garden shed or fence, additional paths or patio.
Alterations without permission could count as damage and you may be charged for the cost of putting the property back to its original condition. Whatever work you plan to do to your home, it is best to ask first. We cannot pay for maintaining your improvements.
