A proud father has described how his son’s life has been “transformed” since their family home was redesigned to allow him to live more independently.
Andrew Roberts has spoken of the positive and long-lasting benefits that the changes have brought for his son, Jake, with the home alterations supporting his growing confidence and freedom.
The ground floor of the family’s Scarborough home was adapted in April 2024 to enable 21-year-old Jake – who has cerebral palsy – to live comfortably with his family whilst receiving essential space and independence during his journey into adulthood.
The modifications were funded by our disabled facilities grant, which helps people with disabilities receive essential changes to their home to improve their independence, privacy and wellbeing.
Now 18 months on since the adaptations were completed, Mr Roberts has described the “incredible” impact that the changes have had for Jake’s development and urged other families across North Yorkshire to apply for funding.
He said: “Before this Jake was sleeping upstairs but he struggled getting up and down the stairs. He was growing into an adult and needed more room and space which simply wasn’t available.
“We spoke with an occupational therapist who felt that modifying the house could better suit Jake’s needs. The funding available meant we were able to create a ground floor living space which gives him the privacy and space that he needs to thrive.
“Jake loves what he calls his ‘man cave’ – he’s got his bed in there along with a lounge area and level access shower room. He can play on his PlayStation, listen to music, and have his own time and space - right here in the family home with his support network around him.”
Andrew continued: “The outcome has been beyond anything we could have expected. We have seen him grow and mature in an incredible way over the last year-and-a-half.
“It’s amazing to know that this kind of funding is available to help support vulnerable people and help improve their quality of life. I would like to thank the council and would urge other families to take advantage and apply”
Our disabled facilities grant has provided life-changing assistance for thousands of families across North Yorkshire, with more than 2,000 homes adapted since 2023.
Eligible people living with physical illness or injury, special educational needs or major problems with sight, hearing, speech or mental health can apply for a grant up to £30,000 to make a range of improvements to their home.
The adaptations make it safer and easier to get around and manage everyday tasks.
Executive member for housing, Cllr Simon Myers, said: “The disabled facilities grant is all about enabling families to stay together and live safely.
“It’s not about bricks and mortar, it’s about protecting people’s dignity, independence and wellbeing – and it’s great to hear how Jake has benefited in his transition from childhood to independent adult life.
“The funding can cover anything from major home renovations to small improvements – including providing stairlifts, hoists or level access showers. Even the small changes can be life-changing for those who receive them, protecting their independence and dignity
“By using this funding wisely, we can continue to make a huge difference to people’s lives, while also helping to reduce more costly interventions like hospital stays or residential care. It’s a win-win for everyone.”
Last month (November), senior councillors accepted the findings of a Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman’s investigation which identified delays when approving and progressing disabled facilities grant referrals.
We have subsequently created a comprehensive action plan to help reduce waiting times for applications, as part of a clear commitment to improve service delivery and help more families in need.
See more information on the disabled facilities grant, including information on how to apply.