Issue - meetings

To consider the report of the Head of Housing Services.

Scrutiny Committee – Community considered the report at their meeting on 6 November and their comments will be reported.

(Report circulated)

The report of the Head of Housing Services was submitted seeking approval for the revised Disabled Adaptations Policy and Procedure following a comprehensive review.

Scrutiny Committee – Community considered the report at their meeting on 6 November 2007 and their comments and support were noted.

RESOLVED that:-

(1)        the Disabled Adaptations Policy and Procedure document be adopted; and

(2)        performance information relating to this new policy is included within the Housing Unit’s Performance Digest.

(Report circulated)

To consider the report of the Head of Housing Services - report circulated.  

The Head of Housing Services presented the report seeking approval for the revised Disabled Adaptations Policy and Procedure following a comprehensive review.

A review had been undertaken as timescales for adaptations varied depending on the complexity of work required and the budget available. Therefore, whilst minor adaptations could take a few weeks or months to install, some applicants had experienced waits of over 12 months for major adaptations such as walk-in showers. The review would lead to a more effective assessment of tenants’ needs and speed up the time taken from referral to completion of the work.

Responding to Members, he stated that a joint Exeter City Council and Devon County Council funded occupational therapist worked with the City Council’s housing staff to help assess tenants requiring assistance. He confirmed that there were links with individual charities providing housing support and agreed to explore the potential for assistance from the City Council to the Exeter Municipal Charities. He advised that where disabled individuals were not eligible for full downsizing support, alternative support packages were available, such as assistance with carpet and curtain removal.

Scrutiny Committee - Community supported the report and requested Executive to agree to:-

(a)        adopt the Disabled Adaptations Policy and Procedure document; and

(b)        include performance information relating to this new policy within the Housing Unit’s Performance Digest.

(Report circulated)