If you have a disability and find it difficult to use your home safely, you may be able to get adaptations to help you live more independently.
Who is eligible
You may be eligible for adaptations if:
- you are an Oxford City Council tenant or a member of the household
- you have a disability
- your disability makes it difficult to use your home safely or independently
Types of adaptations
Minor adaptations
Minor adaptations are small changes that can help you use your home more safely. These can often be arranged without an occupational therapist assessment.
For example:
- grab rails
- handrails
- adjustments to door handles or window latches
- lever taps
- other small support aids
Major adaptations
Major adaptations are larger changes that usually require an occupational therapist assessment.
For example:
- over‑bath or level‑access showers
- access ramps
- stairlifts
- changes to kitchens and bathrooms to improve mobility
- other fixed mobility‑related adaptations
How to apply
Applying for minor adaptations
Requests for minor adaptations can be made by a tenant or someone acting on their behalf, including a family member, friend, carer, healthcare professional or other specialist.
To request a minor adaptation:
You should include:
- your name, address and contact details
- a brief description of the adaptation and why it's needed
Applying for major adaptations
Step 1: Request a needs assessment
Contact Oxfordshire County Council's Social and Health Care Team to request a needs assessment.
You will need:
- your name, date of birth and contact details
- your GP's details
- a description of the difficulties you’re having and what you think might help
Request a needs assessment (Oxfordshire County Council)
See Request a social care needs assessment for further details.
Step 2: Complete your assessment
An occupational therapist will visit your home and assess your needs.
They will:
- discuss the difficulties you are experiencing
- assess how you move around and use your home
- recommend any adaptations needed
They will send their recommendations to Oxford City Council.
Step 3: Wait for the outcome and next steps
Once we receive the occupational therapist's report, we will review the recommendations and contact you to explain the next steps.
Depending on the work required, we may need to:
- arrange a property survey
- carry out a feasibility assessment
- appoint contractors to carry out the work
We will keep you informed throughout the process.
How long the process takes
The time needed depends on the type of adaptation.
We try to complete straightforward adaptations as quickly as possible.
Larger or more complex adaptations may take longer because they require surveys, approvals or specialist contractors.
Maintaining and repairing adaptations
After installation is complete, you should:
- use the adaptations appropriately
- allow access for maintenance if needed
- report any issues as soon as possible
If you need to report an issue, speak to customer services.
We are responsible for maintaining and repairing adaptations that we have installed.
If your home can't be adapted
In some cases, it may not be reasonable or practical to adapt a property.
If this happens, we will discuss other housing options with you, including moving to a home that better meets your needs.
