Adaptation recommendations

Stevenage Borough Council is committed to supporting elderly residents, disabled people, and those with mobility challenges to live independently. We provide adaptations to council owned properties only.

These adaptations are delivered in line with our policies, legislation, and regulations.

Requesting adaptations

All adaptation works must be referred and recommended to us by one of the following:

• Social Services
• A qualified healthcare practitioner
• A council officer (for minor works only)

To begin the process, please contact Social Services on 0300 123 4042 to request an assessment. If adaptations are deemed necessary and appropriate, they will forward a referral to us.

Please note: A referral is not confirmation that the recommended works will be carried out. Each referral is assessed to determine whether the recommendations meet our criteria.

Need an assessment?

To request an assessment for adaptations, please contact Social Services on 0300 123 4042. They will arrange for an Occupational Therapist to assess your needs and guide the next steps.

Our assessment criteria

Once we receive a referral, we will assess whether the proposed adaptations are:

• Necessary
• Appropriate
• Reasonable
• Practical

This assessment is carried out in accordance with:

• Our Aids and Adaptations Policy
• Relevant Government Legislation
• Planning and Building Regulations

Timeframes

• Minor adaptations: Typically completed within 20 working days
• Major adaptations: Due to a backlog, most cases are currently estimated to take 12 to 18 months

You can download our Aids and Adaptations Policy below to learn more about how we deliver this service to council tenants.

Considering a move?

While we aim to support residents in their current homes, you may wish to explore the option of moving to a more suitable property, which may already be adapted or easier to adapt.

Why consider moving?

• A new home may already meet many of your accessibility needs
• It may be quicker and more cost-effective to adapt a new property
• If your current home is larger than needed, a smaller property may be easier to manage
• Incentives and support are available through our Downsizing policy
• Your housing application may be prioritised under the Under-occupation Policy
• Some properties, such as Independent Living Schemes and Flexi-care options, offer additional support
• It helps us make best use of council housing stock and meet residents’ needs more effectively.

If you choose to move, our Adaptations Service can still support you in your new home by completing any recommended works to ensure your comfort and safety.

To discuss your housing options, please contact our Resident Services/Lettings Team on 01438 242666 - we’re happy to help.

For further information or advice please contact 01438 242666 or email, aidsandadaptations@stevenage.gov.uk.