A COUPLE from Farnham have encouraged others to apply for a disabled facilities grant from Waverley Borough Council.

Disabled facilities grants help people to stay independent in their own homes and Waverley is keen to see more people applying for them.

Grants of up to £30,000 are available for a variety of adaptations such as improving access by installing ramps or shallow steps, wider doors, stair lifts, modifications to bathrooms and kitchens and alterations to reach light switches and control power and heat.

Housing association tenants, Bill and Fran Webster from Farnham, have extolled the virtues of the service having recently had a new walk-in shower installed.

“The new shower room has taken away my fear of falling,” said Mr Webster. “It’s been custom-made for me and  makes such a difference. It’s so nice I won’t want to get out of the shower."

Mrs Webster is also delighted. She said: “The service was delivered quickly and efficiently - and very considerately. The workman was excellent - really fabulous and nice to have around.

“He made it easy for us to carry on using the bathroom while he worked. The shower suits any age and ability. It’s the gold standard in bathrooms.”

Carole King, Waverley’s portfolio holder for housing, added: “Disabled Facilities Grants help to maximise people’s independence. Minor modifications to a home can make a huge difference and enable people to stay safe in their own homes.”

Grants are available to owner occupiers and private sector tenants, as well to housing associations and other landlords for the benefit of their tenants.

Waverley also has a Home Improvement Agency to help people with their grant applications, eg by obtaining quotes from reliable contractors, helping with the forms and other documentation and overseeing the works.

For more information about the grants available and how to apply for them visit Waverley Borough Council’s website, www.waverley.gov.uk and look up Disabled Facilities Grant or phone 01483 523372.