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RSC - Disabled Facilities Grants_amended version

Disabled Facilities Grants

What are the objectives and desired outcomes of the review

� Determine whether the distribution of Disabled Facilities Grants (DFGs) to home owners, private sector landlords and Registered Social Landlords (RSLs) is appropriate;

� Establish whether aids and adaptations to RSL properties are necessary, and make recommendations as required;

� Determine what happens to the adaptations enabled by DFGs in RSL properties once those properties are vacated or the adaptations are no longer required by the disabled resident, and make recommendations as required;

� Establish the impact of Choice Based Lettings on the use of adapted RSL properties; and

� Investigate the plausibility of a RSL managing only disabled housing.

Which witnesses are required?

� Disabled housing tenants

� Private Sector Housing Manager

� Registered Social Landlords, including Maidstone Housing Trust

� Kent County Council � Operational Manager of the Occupational Therapy Bureau

� Mid and West Kent In Touch Home Improvement representative

� Communities and Local Government

Other ways to seek evidence? E.g. site visits, involving members of the public

� Possible site visit.

� Photographic evidence.

� Best Practice at other Local Authorities.

What information/training is needed?

� Information on DFGs for RSL tenants at other Local Authorities; and

� Communities and Local Government guidance.

Suggested time for review and report completion date

� 3 � 4 months

How does the review link to council priorities?

� A place with efficient and effective public services.

How does this item deliver CfPS effective scrutiny principles?

� Provides �critical friend� challenge to executive policy makers� and decision makers

� Drives improvement in public services.

Any co-optees or expert witnesses?

� Foundations, The National Body for Home Improvement Agencies Representative