Minor home adaptations

If you or the person you care for are having difficulties at home due to a disability, health or age-related challenges, a minor adaptation could help you to continue to live independently at home without the need for further care and support.

Minor adaptations are small, often simple changes made to a home to improve accessibility and safety, often related to mobility issues and the prevention of falls.

Many of these can be purchased from high street or online retailers. They usually cost less than £1,000 and can be installed relatively quickly by a friend or relative or a local handyman. 

Minor adaptations can include:

• Grab rails - installed to provide support where needed, such as in bathrooms or by stairs
• Lever taps - easier to use than traditional taps, especially for those with limited hand strength
• Additional power sockets - placed at accessible heights to reduce the need for bending or stretching
• Ceiling track hoists - to enable transfer to different locations in the home
• Modular ramping - providing safe entry to the home and other outdoor areas

Who is eligible

If you are a Gloucestershire resident and either own your home or rent privately, you can access the council's minor adaptation service. Private landlords can also apply on behalf of their tenants. Eligibility for housing association tenants may differ. 

Who to contact and what happens next

You should contact the Adult's Helpdesk or Children's Helpdesk at Gloucestershire County Council for advice, guidance and a referral. If you are eligible, this may result in fast-track adaptations or a formal assessment.

Paying for your own adaptations

You and your family may choose to pay for the minor adaptations you need privately. Many of these can be purchased from high street or online retailers. This will generally be quicker and can give you more choice and control.