Stair Lift Grants (Yes, They Do Exist – And Yes, They Can Help You Out!)
Right, so let’s talk about stair lift grants. Because, honestly, if we had a pound for every time someone asked, “Can I get help paying for a stair lift?” we’d probably have enough to buy one! But that’s the thing – a lot of people don’t know there’s financial help out there. And there is! It’s not always easy, and it’s not always quick, but it does exist. And that’s what we’re here with this post to help you with.
So, stair lifts. Expensive little buggers, aren’t they? Whether you’re getting a straight one or a curved one, whether it’s new or a reconditioned stairlift– they’re not exactly cheap. And let’s be honest, nobody’s buying a stair lift because they want to. You’re buying one because the stairs have become more like a mountain, and you’re tired of feeling like you need climbing gear just to get to the loo!
Now, here’s where the grants come in. Or funding. Or financial assistance. Whatever you want to call it. Basically, it’s money – money that doesn’t necessarily have to come out of your own pocket. And that’s what we’re really after, isn’t it?
Stair Lift Grants: The Big One: Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG)
So let me just start – or rather, restart – with the main thing you need to know: the Disabled Facilities Grant, or DFG for short. I’ve mentioned it before, and I’ll probably mention it again in a minute, but bear with me. See DFG on the government website here.
The DFG is a government-backed grant that helps people with disabilities make changes to their homes – and yes, that includes stair lifts. If you’re eligible, you could get up to £30,000 in England (different amounts apply in Wales and Northern Ireland – don’t ask me why, that’s just how it is).
Now, it’s means-tested. That means they’re going to look at your income, your savings, what you’ve got lying around in the bank – all of that. And yes, it can be a bit of a faff. But don’t let the paperwork put you off. I know I’m going in circles here, but seriously, don’t let the paperwork put you off. Because at the end of the day, a free stair lift is a free stair lift, right?
And just to be crystal clear – because I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again – this grant is for people with a disability. So if you or the person you’re caring for has mobility issues, arthritis, MS, Parkinson’s, whatever it might be, it’s worth applying. You start by contacting your local council – just give them a ring or check their website.
Again, see DFG on the government website here.
Stair Lift Grants: Smaller Grants & Local Help
Now, apart from the big DFG, there are other pots of money floating around out there. Little ones, mind you – not always huge, but still helpful. Some local councils have their own home adaptation schemes. These might not be plastered all over the internet, so it’s worth asking directly.
Then there are charities. Yes, charities! They actually help more than people realise. Organisations like Age UK, Turn2us, and The ACT Foundation – they’ve all been known to chip in for things like stair lifts. Sometimes it’s a grant, sometimes it’s a loan, sometimes it’s just a bit of advice – but again, you don’t know until you ask.
I know I’m repeating myself – and I’m sorry for sounding like a broken record – but the key thing here is: don’t be afraid to ask. Whether it’s the council, a charity, or even a local social care team, if you don’t ask, you don’t get – so it’s worth making the effort!
Talk to an Occupational Therapist
Oh! And before I forget (I probably mentioned this already – if not, I should’ve) – speak to an occupational therapist. They’re often the ones who assess your home for adaptations, and they can be the golden ticket to unlocking grant money. Not literally – they don’t hand out cheques – but their assessment can help move the whole process along.
Honestly, I can’t stress this enough. If you want to get a stair lift installed and you’re looking for help paying for it, get an OT referral. Through your GP or the council, either one.
Final Thoughts (Which Are Basically the Same as the First Thoughts)
So let’s wrap this up – and by wrap up, I mean loop back round to what I’ve already said, because it bears repeating. Stair lifts are expensive. Grants are available. The Disabled Facilities Grant is the big one. You have to ask – the money won’t just land in your lap. Charities can help. Councils might surprise you. And don’t forget your friendly neighbourhood occupational therapist.
If nothing else, remember this: you’re not alone in trying to sort this out. Loads of people are in the same boat, and there’s absolutely no shame in looking for help. In fact, it’s smart. It’s savvy. And if you’ve read this far – well done, you’re clearly determined!
Need help choosing the right stair lift or just want to talk to someone about your options? Call UK Stairlifts today on 0800 046 3438 or get in touch via our contact page here.
There’s always someone on the other end of the line ready to help!