Spending DFG Better Housing LIN East. May 2016

Who are Foundations? The National Body for Home Improvement Agencies and Handyperson services since 2000. Lead on improvement of DFG practice and delivery. Appointed by the DCLG. www.foundations.uk.com

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The Collaborative HIA Our new vision for the sector Recognising that people need a range of interconnected services to remain independent – NOT silos May be a range of organisations delivering services, or maybe one integrated provider Person centred and Outcome focussed are what matters Requires Foundations to work differently too

Disabled Facilities Grant

D F G DISABLED Condition that limits senses, movements or activities FACILITIES Features that allow you to do something GRANT Give Money Mandatory

Examples of DFG Funded Adaptations

Disabled Facilities Grant Established in 1990 as a ‘housing’ grant. ‘Mandatory’ if: ‘Necessary and Appropriate’; and ‘Reasonable and Practicable’ Any tenure. Means tested. Majority delivered by HIAs.

Typical DFG Process Person contacts Social Services Occupational Therapist makes assessment Home Improvement Agency helps with application Local Authority approves Grant Contractor carries out works

DFG Funding NOW 1990 - 2014 District Council County Council (Better Care Fund)

Extra Funding Freedom of Information request found: Home adaptations delay a move into residential care by 4 years Central Government funding for DFG more than doubled £550m by 2019/20 Challenge to spend it better New report on history of DFG and future directio

Funding v Regulation “From 2008-09 the scope for use of DFG funding will be widened ... to support any local authority expenditure incurred under the Regulatory Reform (Housing Assistance) (England and Wales) Order 2002 (RRO). This will enable authorities to use specific DFG funding for wider purposes, which may be more appropriate for individuals than current DFG arrangements allow. Creating greater flexibility will allow the DFG to be used for associated purposes, such as moving home, where this is a more appropriate solution, or funding could be pooled to purchase portable extensions which are suitable for re-use, through improved procurement models.”

Examples of using the RRO Removing or amending the means test Pooled budget for ramps (landscape modification) Funding adaptations over £30k Help and support to move Assistive Technology Support for Carers? Any local examples?

Dementia-friendly environments Prime Minister’s Challenge on Dementia 2020. Use of DFG funding to make homes dementia friendly. Good lighting, pictorial signage, open cupboards, familiar designs, etc..

Cold Room,

Paul Smith Director T: 03001240315      M: 07590 962209   E : pauls@foundations.uk.com Website: www.foundations.uk.com   The Old Co-op Building, 11 Railway Street, Glossop, Derbyshire, SK13 7AG