Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 July 2024
416. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if the housing adaptation grant or mobility aids grant scheme can be utilised to purchase sensory equipment for one’s home; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29398/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department provides Exchequer funding to local authorities to administer the suite of Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability, which support older and disabled people living in private houses to adapt their home to meet their needs. The suite of grants, which include the Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability (max grant €30,000), the Mobility Aids Grant (max grant €6,000) and the Housing Aid for Older People Grant (max grant €8,000), are 80% funded by my Department, with a 20% contribution from the resources of the local authority. The detailed administration of these schemes, including assessment, approval and prioritisation, is the responsibility of local authorities.
The Housing Adaptation Grant scheme provides grant funding to assist in the carrying out of works which are reasonably necessary for the purposes of rendering a house more suitable for the accommodation of a person with a disability, which includes an enduring sensory impairment. Grant aid may be considered for the provision of infrastructural and safety related adaptations to create appropriate space for applicants with specific sensory needs.
Applications of this nature should be supported by a multidisciplinary assessment of the applicant by specialist healthcare professionals. This should outline who will be responsible for therapy services and/or the provision and upkeep of sensory related equipment as the grant schemes do not fund the provision of such equipment.
The Mobility Aids Grant is for older people or disabled people who find it difficult to move around their home due to mobility issues. The grant is to improve access, by adding adaptations such as, grab rails; a ramp; a hoist, an accessible shower or a stair lift. This grant scheme does not include the provision of sensory equipment. Further details on these schemes is available at the following link:
www.gov.ie/en/service/6636c-housing-adaptation-grants-for-older-people-and-people-with-a-disability/
