Some of the most vulnerable disabled residents in Rushcliffe are being short-changed in a grant scheme being considered by the borough council, according to Labour councillors.
They’ve welcomed a proposed extra £200,000 for the council’s Disabled Facilities Grant, which helps pay for home improvements and offers greater independence for disabled people.
However, that will still mean longer delays in getting improvement work done, according to Trent Bridge Labour councillor Liz Plant.
“That is frankly unacceptable,” she said.
Labour’s budget proposals in March for an extra £250,000 for the scheme were rejected by the ruling Conservative group. Councillor Plant says the council then ruled out any further increase in the grant.
“Agreeing to this extra financial support would help to reduce the unacceptable waiting times and help to improve the quality of life for more of our residents living with disabilities.
“Labour lobbying has brought about a change of heart, but the extra £200,000 is still not enough and falls short of our budget proposals to meet the needs of Rushcliffe’s disabled community,” she added.
The Wire reported last week that the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) increase will be discussed by councillors on Tuesday (Nov 19), with a final decision next month by the Cabinet.
• Rushcliffe: Council group to discuss £200,000 boost for disabled facilities grants
The grant scheme (DFG) helps to fund adaptations, such as installing ramps and fitting stairlifts.
