12th Dec - Disabled Facilities Grant

Promoted by Robert Rigby on behalf of Bedford & Kempston Conservatives, both of 7 Lime Street, Bedford, MK40 1LD

12th December 2011

Councillor Announces Extra Funding for Disabled Residents

Bedford Borough Council’s Adult Services portfolio holder has announced extra funding to provide facilities such as stair lifts and walk in showers for elderly and vulnerable residents. Conservative Councillor Roger Rigby outlined the decision at this week’s Executive meeting to increase the current Disabled Facilities Grant budget by £400,000.

Cllr Rigby emphasised the importance of the extra cash in speeding up and delivering disabled grants. Without the increase in funding, some cases may have taken up to a year to provide the necessary equipment. However, Cllr Rigby is now confident that the extra money will help up to 65 people get the assistance they need.

Cllr Rigby, who represents Bromham & Biddenham Ward said;

‘I am very pleased that through good financial management of the Adult Services budget we have been able to deliver this extra funding. It will help up to 65 elderly and vulnerable people who are in substantial need of equipment such as stair lifts or walk in showers. This will allow these people to remain in their homes and to have more independence. It will also help to keep these residents safe by preventing accidents.

‘It is essential that we get the necessary facilities to the recipients as soon as possible. I am pleased that this extra funding will help achieve this aim by reducing waiting times.

‘At a time when we are making some very tough decisions about the future of all Council services, we must ensure that the most vulnerable in our society come first. I was very keen to give the Disabled Facilities Grant an extra boost and it is very pleasing that we have been able to do that.’