What adaptations are available?
We provide a range of adaptations free of charge for our residents, including:
• Ramps for wheelchair access,
• Handrails along steep garden paths
• Grab rails at your doors
• Stair rails and stairlifts
• Grab rails next to the bath, shower or toilet
• Over bath showers and shower trays
• Lever taps (helpful if you find it difficult to turn your taps on and off).
How do I apply?
For small items such as grab rails, stair rails and lever taps you can call our Adaptations Officer on 0844 770 3500 and we will fill in a short form over the phone. This is called our Self Assessment Scheme. This helps us to find the best solution for you. If after talking to you we feel you need other aids or a major adaptation we may refer you to Erewash Social Services for a fuller assessment.
If you have difficulty using the phone we can accept applications from close relatives or friends, medical professionals or your Community Carelink Officer if you have one. As we need to take details of personal information please make sure it is someone you trust to act on your behalf.
If you need a major adaptation such as a shower, stairlift or ramp for wheelchair access, you must first be assessed by Erewash Social Services who will refer your case to us. You can contact them by phoning CALL DERBYSHIRE on 08456 058 058, write to Erewash Social Services, Rutland Mill, Market Street, Ilkeston, Derbyshire, DE7 5RU or visit their website.
What happens next?
Once you have contacted them and have been visited at your home they will send a referral to us. You will then be placed on our waiting list for the work to be done.
When you reach the top of the list your adaptation will be carried out by either our In-House Team or an outside contractor. We will write to you telling you their details and give you an estimated date for the work to be done.
If, for any reason, we are unable to carry out the adaptation requested by Social Services, we will write to you and let you know. We will also let Social Services know and they may be able to offer you further advice and help.
Sometimes it may be appropriate for you to move into other accommodation more suited to your needs. Our Customer Contact Team will be able to advise you of your options.
How long will I have to wait?
Whilst we have a budget for adaptations, we receive many applications each year. Applicants assessed as being in most urgent need are given priority as well as those people awaiting discharge from hospital. All other applications are dealt with in date order received.
If however you have made an application for a minor adaptation through our Self Assessment Scheme we aim to get the work done within 14 days.
Major adaptations
If your property needs major alterations, such as a level access (walk in) shower or changing a downstairs room into a bathroom, for example, you may need to apply for a grant called a Disabled Facilities Grant. Erewash Social Services will be able to give you further help and advice about this when you are assessed.
We have copies of a leaflet which explains more about how the Disabled Facilities Grant process works. Please call our Adaptations Officer on 0844 770 3500 to obtain a copy.
You can also get more information from Erewash Borough Council who administer the grants process. You can call them on 0845 907 2244, send them an e-mail or visit their website.
Independent Living
To help you remain independent in your own home we also offer a 24 hour monitoring service for lifelines and telecare. Further details are available here.
Carrying out home improvements
If you wish, you can carry out improvements to your home at your own expense. You will need permission in writing from us first, and the work will need to meet current building regulations and be carried out by a competent tradesman or company.
Contact our Customer Contact Team on 0844 770 3500 to discuss your proposals.
Service standards
Self
Assessment Work
|
To be completed within 14 days
|
Adaptation requests
|
Acknowledged within 5 working days |
Feasibility Survey
(if required)
|
Carried out within 28 days of request being received |
| Decision |
Within 10 working days of your request being received or the date of the feasibility survey, whichever is the later |
Getting involved
We have an Equality and Diversity Forum which meets regularly to discuss a range of issues including the Adaptations Service. Please contact Dena Cole on 0844 770 3500 for more details of how to get involved.
Updated 3 June 2008 (PC)