Adapting Your Home in Perth and Kinross: Support for Older People
As we age, our homes may require modifications to ensure safety and comfort. For those who live in the Perth and Kinross council area, there are resources available to assist older residents with home adaptations. Here’s an overview of what you need to know.
Understanding Home Adaptations
Home adaptations can range from minor adjustments to significant structural changes. Examples include:
- Installing grab rails or stair lifts
- Widening doorways for wheelchair access
- Converting bathrooms into wet rooms
- Adding ramps for easier entry and exit
Eligibility and Financial Assistance
If you’re a homeowner or private tenant in Perth and Kinross and have a disability or age-related condition, you may be eligible for financial support:
- Mandatory Grants: Cover at least 80% of the cost for essential structural adaptations.
- Full Funding: If you receive certain benefits (e.g., Pension Credit, Universal Credit), you might qualify for 100% funding.
- Minor Adaptations: Simple modifications, like grab rails, are typically provided free of charge.
Note: Extensions to create additional living space, such as extra bedrooms, are generally not covered under mandatory grants.
The Assessment Process
To initiate the process:
- Contact Occupational Therapy Services: Email OTDuty@pkc.gov.uk or call 01738 476753 to request an assessment.
- Occupational Therapy Evaluation: An occupational therapist will assess your needs and recommend suitable adaptations.
- Referral: The assessor submits a request for the necessary adaptations.
- Approval: The request is reviewed and approved based on priority and budget.
- Implementation: Adaptations are carried out to meet your needs.
Be aware that high demand may lead to waiting times for assessments.
Additional Support Services
- Caledonia Care & Repair: Offers assistance with small repairs and adaptations for homeowners over 60 or those over 50 with disabilities.
- Scheme of Assistance: Provides information on the assistance that the Council can provide in relation to repairs, maintenance, improvements, and adaptations to privately owned and private rented properties.
Important Considerations
Permission for Alterations: If you rent your home, obtain written permission from your landlord before making changes.
Grant Conditions: Grants may come with conditions, such as using the property as your main residence and maintaining it in good repair.
Contact Information
For more information or to begin the assessment process:
- Occupational Therapy Services: Email OTDuty@pkc.gov.uk or call 01738 476753.
- Caledonia Care & Repair: Contact for assistance with repairs and adaptations.
- Perth and Kinross Council Housing Options Team: Email HousingOptions@pkc.gov.uk or call 01738 476000.
- Oran Care: Contact Us for additional information or support in arranging home adaptations.
Sources
Perth and Kinross Scheme of Assistance
Note: This information is based on available resources as of June 2025 and may be subject to change