Appendix 1: Legislation and funding used to deliver this policy
The legislation that the Council uses to deliver this policy includes:
i) The Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996: requires Councils to provide for statutory Disabled Facilities Grants (DTFG), which are financial grants to help with the cost of adapting a property to meet the needs of a disabled occupant. If an applicant meets the criteria, the Council is required to provide a grant – this is called a Mandatory DFG.
ii) The Regulatory Reform (Housing Assistance) (England and Wales) Order 2002 (RRO) - provides local authorities with the power to provide assistance to residents; for the purpose of improving living conditions so homes are safe to live in. This includes the use of DFG funding to support strategic priorities which integrate health, wellbeing and housing, for the benefit of local people. This policy sets out how the Council will provide assistance, using the powers of the RRO.
iii) Funding made under the RRO provisions is discretionary. This means that as an applicant you are not guaranteed funds. If there is not enough money available to the Council, it may withdraw or suspend discretionary assistance until further funds are available. This will not normally happen until 90% of the year’s funding has been allocated.
iv) The Care Act – content for this section currently in development
v) Funding for measures under this policy is provided by Cumberland Council, using resources from the Better Care Fund (in partnership with health). The Council may also use other resources available to it, and may provide additional offers to its residents, as and when funds are available.