Kingston Council boosts disability funding access for residents
More disabled and vulnerable residents can now access funding to make adaptations to their homes to help improve the quality of their lives thanks to changes made by Kingston Council.
The council has widened access to disability grant funding so that more of the most vulnerable residents are able to qualify for the targeted financial assistance.
Approved earlier this year by the council’s People Committee, the changes will help people stay in their homes for longer, helping to reduce hospital admissions, speed up hospital discharges and help ensure people feel safer in their homes.
As well as changes to the criteria that allow residents to receive the funding, new grants are aimed specifically at helping with dementia care and digital assistance. Charges and costs have also been revised so the council can channel funding to those most in need of its services.
Cllr Emily Davey, portfolio holder for Housing, said:
“These measures bring real and tangible benefit to some of the people in our borough who need it most. It is part of our commitment to make Kingston a fairer borough and do everything we can in order to help our residents’ keep their independence.
“We have pledged to tackle exclusion, promote equality and support those most in need, and are mindful of the housing needs of some of our residents. This policy is this commitment in action.
"Adaptations can make a radical difference to both the person being cared for and their carer. We want people to have the opportunity to be as independent as possible. I am pleased the committee supported the changes. Now more people can benefit from aids and adaptations to their home."