Bathing or showering is an everyday task that many people take for granted. However, these everyday tasks can be challenging and sometimes even dangerous for those with mobility issues. Traditional bathtubs and showers, after all, can pose a risk of slipping or falling. Fortunately, walk-in showers and baths can make a significant difference.
They’re designed to make getting in and out of the shower or tub safe and easy. For instance, they typically have non-slip surfaces, grab bars, and adjustable shower heads. While you might think installing a walk-in shower or bath is out of your budget, there are grants that can help eligible individuals cover the cost.
Edwin Tan/GettyWhat Are Bathroom Renovation Grants?
Bathroom renovation grants are financial assistance programs designed to help people cover the costs of modifying their bathrooms to make them more accessible. These grants can help individuals install equipment like walk-in showers, grab bars, and non-slip surfaces. As a result, bathroom renovation grants can help reduce the risk of falls and other accidents.
Grants may be provided by the government, charitable organizations, and local authorities. So, eligibility criteria and funding amounts can vary. In general, these grants are intended to help individuals with mobility issues maintain their independence and dignity by making their homes more accessible. They’re worth exploring if you need to make bathroom modifications.
Walk-In Shower and Bath Grants To Consider
If you’re considering installing a walk-in shower or bath and need financial assistance, there are several grant schemes to consider. For example, here are three options to explore.
- Disabled Facilities Grants (DFG): These grants are provided by local authorities and can cover up to £30,000 for home modifications, including the installation of walk-in showers and baths. Eligibility criteria include having a disability that affects daily living and income requirements.1
- Minor Home Adaptations Grants: These grants, also provided by local authorities, can cover up to £1,000 for minor modifications. For example, it may be able to cover the installation of grab bars or non-slip surfaces. These grants are available to individuals who need assistance with daily living tasks due to age or disability.2
- Independence at Home Grants: This charitable organization provides grants to help individuals make home modifications, including the installation of walk-in showers and baths. Eligibility criteria include having a disability or long-term illness that affects daily living and financial needs.3
By exploring available grants, people can find financial assistance to help make their homes safer and more accessible, allowing them to maintain their independence.
Applying for Grants
The application process for grants will depend on the type of grant. For local authority grants, individuals should contact the relevant department within their local council to find out how to apply. This process may involve completing an application form and providing supporting documentation.
Similarly, charitable grants may require an application form to be completed and submitted online or by post. Additionally, it may be necessary to provide supporting documentation like proof of income or a letter from a doctor. An online search can help you research the specific requirements for a grant.
The Benefits of Walk-In Showers and Baths
Walk-in showers and baths can improve the quality of life for individuals with mobility issues in several ways. Let’s take a closer look at the reasons to consider installing one.
- Improved Safety: Traditional bathtubs and showers can be dangerous for those with mobility issues. Walk-in showers and baths, on the other hand, offer features like non-slip surfaces and grab bars. As a result, they reduce the risk of slips and falls.
- Enhanced Independence: By making modifications to their homes, individuals with disabilities or mobility issues can maintain their independence and continue to perform daily living tasks like bathing without assistance.
- Increased Dignity: Struggling to bathe in a traditional tub or shower can be embarrassing and undignified. Fortunately, walk-in showers and baths offer a more comfortable and private bathing experience, increasing an individual’s sense of dignity.
Overall, installing a walk-in shower or bath can improve an individual’s quality of life. They can make daily living tasks safer, more comfortable, and more independent.4
The Takeaway
Walk-in showers and baths can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals with mobility issues or disabilities. They provide improved safety, greater independence, and increased dignity. While the cost of installing a walk-in shower or bath can be prohibitive, thankfully, there are bathroom renovation grants.
These grants are provided by the government, charitable organizations, and local authorities. By exploring the available grants, seniors and other people with mobility issues can take action to make their homes more accessible. Walk-in showers and baths are valuable home renovations that can allow people to stay in their homes and maintain their independence.