Published 22 June 2026
Government funding for the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is set to remain at a record level in the year ahead, with more than £700 million confirmed for 2026-27. The money, distributed to councils in England through the Better Care Fund, helps disabled and older people pay for home adaptations such as stairlifts, ramps, level-access showers and door widening so they can stay safely in their own homes.
The 2025-26 total reached £761 million after an in-year uplift of £50 million was announced in January 2026 and paid the following month. For 2026-27, the British Healthcare Trades Association reports that £723 million has been confirmed, keeping national investment close to its recent peak. Charities have welcomed the continued commitment while pressing for the individual grant caps to rise.
It is important to understand what has and has not changed. The maximum individual grant remains £30,000 in England, £36,000 in Wales and £25,000 in Northern Ireland. These caps have not increased for 2026, so while the national pot is large, the help any one household can receive is unchanged. Means testing still applies to most adult applicants, though adaptations for disabled children are typically exempt.
For many families, a DFG can cover a significant share of the cost of a home adaptation. A stairlift is one of the most common items funded, and our guide to stairlift costs explains typical prices so you can see how far a grant might stretch. Where a stairlift is not suitable, a home lift may be an option, while bathroom changes are covered in our bathroom mobility guide.
To apply, contact your local council, which will arrange an assessment of your needs, usually involving an occupational therapist. Because waiting times and processes vary between authorities, it pays to start early and to gather quotes from approved installers. You can compare providers and request a stairlift quote or find a mobility company through our directory.
Further detail on grant allocations is available from the British Healthcare Trades Association and on GOV.UK.
Related guides on Review Mobility
- How much does a stairlift cost?
- Home lifts explained
- Bathroom mobility adaptations
- Request a stairlift quote
Published 22 June 2026