Bathing should be one of life’s simple pleasures, but for many elderly people and those with mobility challenges, traditional baths present significant safety risks and physical difficulties. Walk-in baths have emerged as a transformative solution, combining the therapeutic benefits of a warm soak with the accessibility features that make independent bathing possible. Whether you are experiencing age-related mobility changes, recovering from surgery, or managing a long-term condition, understanding what walk-in baths offer can help you maintain your independence and dignity in the bathroom. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about walk-in baths in the UK, from how they work and their genuine benefits, to pricing, installation considerations, and how to access funding support.
The growing popularity of walk-in baths reflects a broader shift in how we approach aging and disability in the home. Rather than forcing individuals to abandon the comfort and therapeutic benefits of bathing, walk-in baths provide a practical middle ground between traditional baths and increasingly popular wet rooms. They preserve the comforting ritual of a warm soak whilst eliminating the hazardous climbing in and out that causes so many bathroom injuries each year.
What Is a Walk-In Bath and Who Are They For
A walk-in bath is a specially designed bathtub that features an integrated door in the side panel, allowing users to step into the tub easily without having to climb over a traditional rim. The door seals watertightly once you are inside, and you can fill the bath with warm water for a comfortable soak. Once finished, you simply drain the water before opening the door and stepping out at floor level, without the physical demands of hoisting yourself out of a conventional bath. The doors open inward or outward depending on the model and your bathroom layout, and modern walk-in baths include slip-resistant surfaces, grab rails, and comfortable seating to maximise safety throughout the bathing experience.
Walk-in baths are suitable for a remarkably wide range of people. The primary users are older adults who have experienced falls or mobility decline and want to continue enjoying proper baths rather than relying solely on showers. Many elderly people prefer the therapeutic warmth and relaxation of a bath, particularly those with arthritis, joint pain, or muscle stiffness who benefit from the buoyancy and warmth. People recovering from surgery, including hip replacements or knee procedures, often find walk-in baths invaluable during rehabilitation when traditional baths are inaccessible. Disabled individuals with limited mobility, whether from spinal injuries, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, or other long-term conditions, gain significant independence through walk-in bath access. Even younger people with temporary injuries find them useful during recovery periods. The reality is that bathroom falls represent one of the most common causes of serious injury in older people, with the Health and Safety Executive reporting that thousands of non-fatal falls occur in British bathrooms annually, making accessible bathing solutions critically important.
The growing acceptance of walk-in baths reflects changing attitudes towards aging and disability. Rather than viewing accessibility features as concessions or admissions of decline, people increasingly recognise them as tools for maintaining independence, preserving dignity, and continuing to enjoy life. Walk-in baths are no longer specialist products tucked away in medical catalogues; they have become mainstream bathroom renovations that many people consider when planning home improvements, particularly as they think about aging in place and remaining in their current homes as they grow older.
Key Benefits of Walk-In Baths
Safety and Fall Prevention
Bathroom falls represent a significant public health concern in the United Kingdom, particularly among older adults. Slipping, stumbling while stepping in or out of conventional baths, and loss of balance whilst sitting account for thousands of hospital admissions annually. The standard bathtub rim sits approximately 50 centimetres above the floor, requiring considerable leg strength, balance, and flexibility to navigate safely. For anyone with arthritis, balance problems, weakness, or reduced coordination, this movement becomes genuinely hazardous. Walk-in baths eliminate this primary hazard by bringing the entry point down to floor level, removing the necessity to lift the leg high and step over a rim whilst on a potentially slippery surface.
The safety advantages extend beyond simply the entry and exit. Walk-in baths are equipped with slip-resistant surfaces throughout the tub floor and seating areas, reducing the likelihood of losing your footing once you are in the water. Integrated grab rails provide secure handholds positioned exactly where people need them most, at the points where transfers are happening. The door seal is engineered to be watertight but opens easily from inside the bath, so even if you experience dizziness or disorientation whilst bathing, you can safely exit without being trapped. Many walk-in baths include cushioned seating that supports you throughout the soak, preventing the strain of having to maintain an upright position or the risk of sliding down the tub. These cumulative safety features mean that people who might otherwise avoid bathing altogether out of fear can do so confidently.
The psychological impact of improved bathroom safety should not be underestimated. When people are afraid of falling, they often restrict their own activities, leading to reduced mobility and accelerated physical decline, a phenomenon sometimes called the “fear-avoidance cycle”. By providing a safe way to bathe, walk-in baths help people maintain confidence in their own capabilities and continue with normal daily activities that contribute to wellbeing and quality of life. This mental health dimension is as important as the physical safety benefit.
Independence in the Bathroom
Maintaining independence in personal care is profoundly important to most people, and losing the ability to bathe unaided represents a significant loss of autonomy. Walk-in baths restore this independence for many individuals who would otherwise require assistance from a carer or family member to bathe safely. This shift towards independent bathing has substantial emotional and psychological benefits, people retain control over this intimate daily ritual and avoid the vulnerability of requiring assistance with personal hygiene tasks. The ability to bathe alone on your own schedule, at your preferred temperature, and for as long as you wish is genuinely liberating for those who have adapted to dependence on others.
The independence gains extend into related areas of life. People who can bathe independently often report increased confidence in other daily activities, improved self-esteem, and better overall mood and wellbeing. The rhythm of a personal bathing routine, the quiet time for reflection, and the comfort of warm water are meaningful parts of many people’s daily lives. Walk-in baths allow these valued routines to continue, rather than forcing people to abandon them as they age or face mobility challenges. For many users, this represents far more than simple physical functionality; it is about preserving their sense of self and their preferred way of living.
From a practical standpoint, independence in bathing also reduces the demands on family members and carers. If adult children or professional care staff no longer need to assist with bathing, this frees time and resources for other care tasks or activities. This shift can improve relationships between family members who may otherwise develop caregiver fatigue or stress related to intimate care provision. In households where carers are already stretched thin managing multiple responsibilities, removing the bathing assistance task can make a measurable difference to everyone’s quality of life.
Therapeutic and Hydrotherapy Options
The therapeutic benefits of warm water immersion have been recognised for centuries across many cultures, and modern walk-in baths build on this understanding by offering various hydrotherapy features that enhance wellbeing and support physical health. Warm water immersion reduces pain in people with arthritis and joint conditions through several mechanisms: the warmth increases circulation and reduces muscle tension, whilst the buoyancy of water reduces the load on joints, allowing comfortable movement that might be painful on land. People with osteoarthritis in knees, hips, and shoulders often report significant pain reduction during and after soaking in a warm bath. The water temperature increases circulation throughout the body, which can improve healing, reduce inflammation, and contribute to better overall cardiovascular health. Regular warm baths have even been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce stress hormones, contributing to improved metabolic health.
Premium walk-in baths now incorporate sophisticated hydrotherapy features that magnify these therapeutic benefits. Whirlpool jets positioned along the tub sides and bottom deliver rhythmic water massage, improving circulation and providing deep muscle relaxation. Air jets create a gentler, bubble-based massage that is suitable for people with sensitive skin or those finding water jets too intense. Heated seating maintains comfortable body temperature throughout the soak, preventing the gradual heat loss that occurs in conventional baths. Some models include chromotherapy lighting, which uses colour to promote relaxation and wellbeing, complementing the physical benefits of the water. These advanced features transform the bath from a cleaning necessity into a wellness experience that addresses both physical and mental health needs.
For people managing chronic pain conditions, the regular use of therapeutic bathing can reduce reliance on pain medication and contribute to improved quality of life. The psychological benefit of regular self-care and relaxation activities should not be overlooked either; many people find that a warm soak provides valuable stress relief, mental clarity, and restoration of mood and perspective. This holistic approach to health, using the bath as a therapeutic tool rather than merely a hygiene necessity, has contributed to the popularity of walk-in baths among people seeking to actively manage their health and wellbeing.
Types of Walk-In Baths
Traditional Walk-In Baths with Side Door
The most common walk-in bath design features a hinged door set into one side panel of the tub. These traditional models work much like standard doors you use throughout your home, with handles and hinges engineered specifically to withstand the damp bathroom environment and regular use. The door swings open to allow entry when empty, then seals watertightly once you are inside and the door is closed. This design offers several practical advantages: it is straightforward to understand and use, the mechanics are reliable and established, and the side entry position suits various bathroom layouts. These baths come in different orientations, with doors opening to the left or right, allowing you to choose the configuration that works best with your bathroom’s design and your own mobility patterns.
Traditional walk-in baths with side doors are available across a wide range of sizes, from compact models designed for smaller bathrooms to full-length, freestanding tubs that provide generous soaking space. The price range is broad as well, with basic functional models available from £2,000 upwards, whilst premium versions with advanced hydrotherapy features can reach £8,000 or more. The substantial variation in cost relates to materials, acrylic versus cast iron, finish quality, included features, and whether hydrotherapy jets are incorporated. These models have been established on the market long enough that many suppliers and installers stock them, reducing delivery times and making them more accessible options for people seeking faster installation.
The majority of NHS-funded walk-in baths supplied to eligible users fall into this traditional side-door category, as the proven reliability and relative simplicity of design make them practical for widespread provision. Many private purchasers likewise choose traditional models because they understand the technology and appreciate the straightforward functionality without unnecessary complexity.
Low-Threshold Walk-In Baths
Low-threshold walk-in baths reduce the height of the rim that needs to be crossed during entry, sometimes dropping the entry level to just five to ten centimetres above floor level, compared to the standard fifteen to twenty centimetres of traditional walk-in baths. This refinement makes a measurable difference for people with significant mobility restrictions, very limited leg strength, or balance problems that make even the modest step of traditional models challenging. The door still operates on the same principle, opening and closing watertightly, but the reduced threshold means less strength and flexibility are required to cross it. Some people with severe mobility limitations find that low-threshold models are the only walk-in bath option that allows them to bathe independently, making this innovation genuinely life-changing for this population.
The lower threshold does introduce some engineering considerations; the tub must be designed and installed such that water cannot leak from around the door seal, even at the lower height. This sometimes requires more precise installation and selection of compatible flooring. The cost is typically slightly higher than standard models due to the engineering sophistication required. However, for individuals with significant mobility challenges, the improved accessibility makes the additional investment worthwhile. Low-threshold models are particularly valuable for wheelchair users who need to transfer directly into the bath from their chair with minimal height differential, and for people with arthritis so severe that standard models remain inaccessible.
Compact Walk-In Baths for Smaller Bathrooms
Not all bathrooms are spacious enough to accommodate full-length walk-in baths, a reality in many older British homes with characteristically small bathrooms. Compact walk-in bath designs address this constraint by providing genuine walk-in functionality within more limited footprints. These models maintain the critical safety and accessibility features but reduce overall dimensions to fit into spaces where standard baths are impossible. Many compact models are specifically designed to replace existing standard baths, fitting into the same floor space and even sometimes reusing existing plumbing connections, which can simplify and reduce installation costs.
Compact models typically measure around 130-150 centimetres in length, compared to the standard 170+ centimetres of full-size baths, and some may be shallower as well, reducing water usage and heating time. Whilst less spacious than full-length models, they still provide genuine soaking depth and sufficient space for comfortable immersion. For people with limited bathroom space, compact walk-in baths represent a practical solution that maintains independence and safety whilst respecting the constraints of their home environment. The availability of these models has expanded significantly in recent years as manufacturers have recognised the large market of people living in space-limited homes who nonetheless require accessible bathing solutions.
Hydrotherapy and Whirlpool Walk-In Baths
For people seeking maximum therapeutic benefit and the luxury experience of a premium spa-like bathing experience, walk-in baths with integrated hydrotherapy systems offer sophisticated options. These premium models incorporate multiple jets positioned around the tub sides, bottom, and sometimes back panel, delivering water massage to muscles and joints. The jets can usually be controlled independently, allowing users to select which areas receive massage and adjust pressure settings to suit their preference and comfort. Some models include both water jets and air jets, giving users choice between the firmer impact of water massage and the gentler bubble action of air massage.
Whirlpool walk-in baths often include additional features that complement the hydrotherapy experience: heated seating, chromotherapy lighting, aromatherapy dispensers, and insulated construction that maintains water temperature throughout the soak. The control systems are sophisticated, with programmable features allowing you to save your preferred settings and activate them with a single button. These premium models are particularly valued by people with significant arthritis, muscle tension, or those seeking wellness benefits beyond basic hygiene. The investment is substantial, with hydrotherapy walk-in baths typically ranging from £6,000 to £12,000 or higher, but for users who will benefit from daily therapeutic soaking, the return on investment in terms of pain relief and improved wellbeing is considerable.
Many private customers invest in hydrotherapy models, viewing them as personal wellness purchases rather than purely medical equipment. The pleasure of a daily therapeutic soak, combined with genuine health benefits, has made these premium options increasingly popular among people with the financial means to choose them. Hydrotherapy is also increasingly recommended by occupational therapists and physiotherapists for specific conditions, which has further driven uptake as healthcare professionals recognise the genuine therapeutic value these systems offer.
How Much Do Walk-In Baths Cost in the UK
Walk-in bath pricing in the UK varies considerably based on model type, features, materials, and installation requirements. Basic functional walk-in baths with simple side-door entry, no hydrotherapy features, and acrylic construction typically cost between £2,000 and £3,500 for the equipment alone. These straightforward models provide the essential accessibility and safety benefits without expensive additional features, making them a practical choice for people focused on functional independence rather than premium amenities. Mid-range models with improved finishes, better insulation, integrated grab rails, and sometimes basic heating features typically cost £3,500 to £6,000. Premium walk-in baths with hydrotherapy jets, advanced controls, superior materials including cast iron construction, and comprehensive feature sets can range from £6,000 to £12,000 or higher for truly luxury installations.
Installation costs add substantially to the equipment purchase price and deserve careful consideration when budgeting. Installation complexity depends on various factors including your existing bathroom layout, plumbing configuration, flooring conditions, and whether structural work is needed. Simple installations where plumbing locations align well with the walk-in bath position and no structural work is required might cost £1,500 to £2,500. More complex installations requiring plumbing relocation, floor work, or structural modifications can cost £3,000 to £5,000 or even higher. Professional installation is strongly recommended despite the cost, as improper installation can result in door seals that fail, water leaks into surrounding structures, and safety issues that compromise the bath’s functionality. When budgeting for a walk-in bath, expect total costs of £4,000 to £18,000 including both equipment and professional installation, depending on the model and complexity of your situation.
Several factors influence where within this range your costs will fall. The size and condition of your existing bathroom affects whether structural modifications are necessary. The distance from existing plumbing affects installation complexity and cost. Whether you are removing an existing bath or installing where no bath currently exists affects labour requirements. The specific model you choose obviously affects equipment cost substantially. Your location within the UK influences labour rates and availability of specialist installers. These variables mean that two installations can differ dramatically in total cost, which is why obtaining detailed quotes from multiple suppliers is essential before committing to purchase.
Essential Features to Look For
When selecting a walk-in bath, several key features directly impact safety, comfort, and longevity, and deserve careful evaluation. Door seal quality is paramount; the door must seal completely watertightly to prevent leaks into surrounding structures, which could cause serious damage and mould problems. Look for multi-stage sealing systems with gaskets designed specifically for bathroom moisture environments, and verify that the supplier provides clear information about how seals are maintained and replaced. Seat height should align with your comfortable sitting height and ease of standing; seats that are too low require excessive strength to stand from, whilst seats that are too high can be uncomfortable. Grab rails must be positioned exactly where transfers occur, with sturdy construction that supports full body weight without flexing. Anti-slip surfaces throughout the tub floor and seating area are essential for safety; verify that the surface finish actually provides meaningful grip even when wet, not merely textured appearance.
Fill speed affects the practical usability of the bath; models that take excessively long to fill can be frustrating and reduce water temperature as it sits waiting for the tub to fill. Most quality models fill in 3 to 5 minutes, which is reasonable for daily use. Drainage speed matters similarly; you need to be able to drain the tub in reasonable time without waiting extended periods with your feet in residual water. Access to controls whilst in the bath is important; if you cannot reach taps, drain controls, or jet controls from inside the bath, you will struggle with operation. Materials matter for both longevity and maintenance; acrylic is more budget-friendly and lightweight but can scratch and stain, whilst cast iron is more durable but heavier and more expensive. Consider the weight and strength needed to perform maintenance tasks like cleaning or drain maintenance. Supplementing walk-in baths with best shower mats can add extra safety in adjacent areas of your bathroom.
Warranty coverage provides important protection on your investment; verify what is covered, for how long, and whether the supplier or installer manages warranty claims. Some premium models include limited lifetime warranties on the tub shell but shorter warranties on mechanical components like doors and seals, which is a realistic reflection of what typically wears. Certification is important as well; look for models certified to British Standards BS 5925 or equivalent, which confirms they meet rigorous UK safety and quality standards. User reviews from people who have actually lived with the models you are considering provide invaluable insights into long-term functionality, reliability, and whether theoretical benefits translate into practical reality.
Walk-In Baths vs Walk-In Showers: Which Is Right for You
The choice between a walk-in bath and a walk-in shower is fundamentally about understanding what you value most in your bathing experience and what your physical needs are. Walk-in baths offer the therapeutic benefits of warm water immersion, allowing you to soak in hot water, which reduces pain and stiffness whilst relaxing tired muscles. The buoyancy of water provides support during the soak, allowing comfortable relaxation without muscular effort. Many people find the ritual and comfort of a bath psychologically beneficial, and for those with arthritis or chronic pain conditions, the therapeutic warmth is genuinely medically valuable. Baths allow you to sit securely whilst bathing, which may be important if you have balance problems or fatigue. The water temperature in a bath remains stable throughout your soak, providing consistent therapeutic benefit. However, baths require time to fill, use more water, and involve sitting in used bathwater that progressively cools.
Walk-in showers, which are typically accessed through a low-threshold entry and utilised whilst standing or sitting on a shower chair, offer different advantages. Showers use significantly less water and energy to heat that water, providing environmental and economic benefits. Showering takes less time overall, which suits people with limited energy or those in busy households. Showers provide constant fresh water throughout the wash, and water temperature can be adjusted instantly if it becomes uncomfortable. You exit a shower clean and dry without sitting in used water. Showers suit people who prefer the sensation of fresh flowing water or who need to avoid prolonged immersion due to skin conditions or medical reasons. However, showers require standing balance or secure seating to use safely, and do not provide the therapeutic warmth and buoyancy benefits of bathing. Best adjustable shower chairs can make shower access much easier for those choosing this option.
The practical reality for many people is that the choice need not be either-or. Many bathrooms can accommodate both a walk-in bath and a separate accessible shower, allowing you to choose whichever suits your daily needs. On days when your arthritis is particularly bothersome, a therapeutic soak in a walk-in bath might be perfect. On busy mornings when you need to wash quickly, an efficient shower serves better. Some people maintain a full bathroom mobility aids strategy with both options available, maximising flexibility and daily comfort. If your bathroom space genuinely allows only one solution, your decision should be based on which benefit you prioritise most, and how frequently you would realistically use each option. Visiting showrooms to experience both walk-in baths and walk-in showers physically before deciding can help clarify your genuine preferences rather than theoretical preferences.
Grants and Funding for Walk-In Baths
Accessing financial support for walk-in bath installation is possible for many people through various government and charitable funding streams, though the process requires understanding what you are eligible for and navigating application procedures. The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is the primary government funding mechanism available in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, providing local authority funding for home modifications that increase accessibility for disabled people. Walk-in baths can qualify for DFG support if an occupational therapist assesses that they are necessary to improve your mobility, safety, or independence in the bathroom. The grant is means-tested, with the amount provided depending on your household income and available savings; some people qualify for fully funded adaptations, whilst others receive partial funding requiring personal contribution.
To access DFG funding, you must first be assessed by an occupational therapist, normally through your local authority’s occupational therapy service or by requesting a referral through your GP. The occupational therapist will evaluate your specific needs and determine whether a walk-in bath is the appropriate solution. If approved, they will provide a recommendation that forms the basis of a DFG application through your local council. The council will then request quotes from approved contractors and, once a grant is authorised, fund the installation directly. The entire process typically takes several months, which is an important consideration if you need a solution urgently. Some local authorities have restrictions on which types of walk-in baths qualify, so early discussion with your occupational therapist about their specific requirements is worthwhile.
Beyond DFG, several charitable organisations provide funding for bathroom adaptations. The Royal British Legion, Blind Veterans UK, and various condition-specific charities offer grants for people meeting their eligibility criteria. Some local councils offer additional discretionary funding for people slightly above DFG means-test thresholds. Turning 55 or older, many people become eligible for Age UK support programmes that occasionally include funding for adaptations. Some private walk-in bath suppliers offer payment plans or finance options that spread costs over extended periods, though interest charges apply. The Association of Retired and Persons Over 50 (ARPO) sometimes has information about local grants. The key is proactive investigation; many people miss available funding simply because they are unaware it exists, so spending time researching your specific local opportunities can uncover significant financial support. You may also want to explore stairlift grants to understand how similar accessibility funding works, as the principles are often comparable. Additionally, reviewing occupational therapy benefits helps you understand how assessments lead to appropriate equipment selection and funding pathways.
How to Find a Reputable Installer
Choosing a qualified, reliable installer is as important as selecting the walk-in bath model itself, as poor installation can compromise safety and longevity regardless of equipment quality. Seek installers who specialise specifically in bathroom accessibility equipment rather than general plumbers; specialists understand the particular requirements of walk-in baths, including proper door sealing, sloped flooring to facilitate drainage, and compliance with British Standards. Verify that potential installers hold relevant qualifications, including Gas Safe Registration if gas is involved in any work, and British Standards Certification or equivalent. Ask for references from previous customers and, more helpfully, ask if they can provide contact information for people in your local area who have had walk-in baths installed, so you can ask about their actual experience.
Check that the installer provides written quotations detailing all work to be performed, materials to be used, timeline for completion, and total cost including any contingencies for unexpected issues. Be wary of unusually low quotes that seem too good to be true; they often are, and may reflect cutting corners that compromise quality or safety. Verify that the installer offers a warranty on their labour, with clear explanation of what is covered and for how long. Confirm that they will obtain all necessary building regulation approvals if required, as your local authority may mandate this for bathroom adaptations. Request that the installation remains as clean and contained as possible, with respect for the rest of your home during the work period.
The installer should be willing to provide thorough training on using your new walk-in bath, including operation of any complex features, maintenance requirements, and safety procedures. A good installer takes time to ensure you feel completely confident using your new bath before they consider the job complete. Ask about after-sales support and what happens if issues arise after installation. Many reputable installers remain available for follow-up adjustments or maintenance during the first year, supporting your successful adaptation to your new equipment. Checking online reviews and complaints procedures with Trading Standards provides additional perspective on reputation. Whilst price matters, prioritising experience, qualifications, and communication often results in better long-term outcomes than prioritising the lowest cost quote. Learning about arthritis tips can also help you understand how to maintain bathroom safety if you have arthritic conditions affecting your ability to manage installation or maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does a walk-in bath installation typically take?
A: Most standard walk-in bath installations take between two and five working days, depending on the complexity of plumbing relocation required and whether structural work is necessary. Simple installations with compatible existing plumbing may be completed in a single day, whilst complex renovations requiring structural modifications or extensive plumbing changes might extend over a week or more. Your installer should provide a clear timeline during the quotation stage.
Q: Will my walk-in bath door develop leaks over time?
A: Modern walk-in bath doors are engineered to maintain watertight seals indefinitely with proper maintenance. However, the gaskets and seals do eventually wear and may need replacement after 10-15 years of regular use. Quality manufacturers design their models for easy gasket replacement without requiring removal of the entire bath. Regular cleaning of seals and avoiding abrasive cleaners help maintain seal integrity for maximum longevity.
Q: Can I use a walk-in bath if I have very limited mobility or use a wheelchair?
A: Yes, walk-in baths can absolutely serve people with significant mobility limitations, though you may need specific adaptations. Low-threshold models minimise the entry step required. You might use a transfer board to move from your wheelchair into the bath seat, or employ a mobile bath lift system to lower you safely into the tub. Discussing your specific situation with an occupational therapist can identify which solutions work best for you.
Q: How much water does a walk-in bath use compared to a traditional bath?
A: Walk-in baths typically use similar volumes of water to traditional baths, around 150-200 litres for a typical soak. Some compact models use slightly less water. If environmental concerns are paramount, this is an area where walk-in showers hold a genuine advantage, using significantly less water.
Q: Are walk-in baths available through the NHS, or must I purchase privately?
A: Walk-in baths can be provided through the NHS via the Disabled Facilities Grant process, though as demand exceeds available funding, many people choose to purchase privately. Some local authorities loan walk-in bath equipment temporarily to people recovering from surgery, though permanent access depends on your specific circumstances and local authority policies. Speaking with your occupational therapist about what your local authority offers is the first step.