Purpose

To consider the report of the Cabinet Member
for Housing seeking approval for the updates relating to the
Discretionary Disabled Financial Assistance Policy.

Decision

(i) 
To approve the Discretionary Disabled Adaptations Financial
Assistance Policy 2026-2028 as attached at appendix 1.
(ii) 
Subject to recommendation (i), to grant delegated authority to the
Director of Housing, to take all actions necessary to adopt and
implement the policy and, following consultation with the Cabinet
Member for Housing, Director of Legal & Governance and the
Executive Director, Enabling Services, to make minor amendments to
this policy, as appropriate.

Reasons for the decision

1. 
A more equal Southampton. The policy will support inclusive
decision-making and improving access to services for vulnerable
groups. It assists access to financial resources, adaptations and
pathways for further advice and support.
2. 
A healthier Southampton. The policy helps support people to live
healthy, independent and more active lives, improving the quality
of our homes and assisting with hospital discharge services and
partners.
3. 
A safer Southampton. To provide additional adaptation and financial
assistance to the most vulnerable residents of the city and reduce
risks of falls and hospital admission.
4. 
A growing Southampton. The policy will help grow
Southampton’s economy in an inclusive, fair and sustainable
way and help deliver accessible/adapted homes that Southampton
needs to thrive.
5. 
A modern, financially sustainable council that makes lives better
for residents. The policy embraces new technology, improves the use
of our data regarding adaptations and ensures our residents are at
the heart of our adaptation approach.

Alternative options considered

The new policy 2026-28 is in line with current
DFG legislation and national good practice guidelines.
The policy is an update of the existing one,
providing improved access to assistance and service pathways. If
this update is not approved, assistance would be dependent on the
less supportive to Southampton’s disabled residents,
previous, 2022 policy.
The 2022 Discretionary Assistance Policy is
not as effective, broad or as widely beneficial in supporting
disadvantaged/disabled residents and does not include the most
up-to-date guidance and legislation.