A Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is a vital source of financial support available across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland to help people with disabilities live more independently and safely at home. Despite being one of the most impactful types of home-adaptation funding available, many individuals and families are still unaware of how the DFG works, who qualifies, or how to apply.
In this article, we break down everything you need to know about the DFG: what it is, who it is for, how it can help, and where to start the application process. Whether you are researching support for yourself, a family member, a client or a service user, this guide will provide a clear and detailed overview.
A Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is a means-tested grant provided by local authorities to help fund essential home adaptations for disabled adults and children. The goal is simple: ensure people with disabilities can live safely, independently, and with dignity in their own homes.
The grant is established under the Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996 and remains one of the primary mechanisms through which the UK government supports accessible living environments.
You can read the government’s official guidance here:
https://www.gov.uk/disabled-facilities-grants
The DFG can fund a wide range of home modifications. These include both minor and major adaptations, and the type of support awarded will depend on individual needs as assessed by an occupational therapist (OT).
Common examples include:
All adaptations funded through the DFG must be essential, reasonable, and linked directly to the applicant’s disability.
The Disabled Facilities Grant is available to:
Applicants must have a permanent and substantial disability that makes everyday activities difficult or unsafe.
Local authorities can provide discretionary top-up funding when required. Repayment may apply if the applicant moves home within a certain period and the cost of works exceeds a set threshold.
A Disabled Facilities Grant can significantly improve quality of life. Benefits include:
Adaptations such as stairlifts, wet rooms, and ramps allow individuals to manage daily tasks without assistance.
Fall-prevention measures and access solutions reduce the risk of accidents.
Safer home layouts and equipment reduce physical strain on carers and family members.
Adapted homes can prevent hospital admissions and reduce the need for residential care.
Non-means-tested support for children ensures they can access safe, inclusive spaces at home.
Start the process through your local authority’s housing or environmental health department:
https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council
2. Occupational Therapy Assessment
An OT will assess the home and recommend necessary adaptations.
3. Submit the Application
The council will review the application and reach a decision (up to six months).
4. Installation of Adaptations
Works are arranged either by the council or through approved contractors.
At Enable Access, we work closely with councils, occupational therapists, installers, and end users to support every stage of the DFG process. Our aim is to ensure that every customer receives the right access solution efficiently and professionally. View our case study page to see how we have help others to regain the freedom they deserve.
Our technical team is made up entirely of Level 4 Trusted Assessors, providing industry-leading expertise. This ensures that product recommendations, measurements, and specifications align fully with DFG requirements, building regulations, and best-practice standards.
We support customers and professionals by:
Enable Access is the UK’s leading manufacturer of modular ramp systems—one of the most common adaptations funded through DFGs. Our solutions are designed to provide safe, durable, and fully compliant access for wheelchair users and individuals with limited mobility.
We provide:
These adaptations ensure smooth, step-free access in and out of the home and can be customised to meet individual needs and property layouts.
Our team provides:
We understand both the practical requirements and procedural steps involved in DFG-funded adaptations, ensuring a smooth, professional, and fully supported process from enquiry to installation.
A Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is a powerful resource that enables people with disabilities to live safely and independently at home. Whether you require a modular ramp, a replacement low-threshold door, or a complete access solution, understanding the DFG process can open the door to life-changing improvements.
Enable Access is here to support you every step of the way. With our Level 4 Trusted Assessor technical team and comprehensive range of access products, we provide the expertise and solutions needed to deliver high-quality, compliant, DFG-funded adaptations.
For official government guidance, visit:
https://www.gov.uk/disabled-facilities-grants
If you would like tailored advice or support, the Enable Access team is ready to help. Call us today on 02082750375 or email us sales@enable-access.com
