Our Commitment

We are dedicated to helping people live independently in their homes. If you or anyone in your household has a disability and finds it difficult to access, move around, or use facilities in your home, we may be able to help by adapting your home to suit your needs.

Assessment and Suitability

Some homes cannot be easily adapted due to their design or location. In these situations, we will work with you to find a more suitable property, although availability may be limited and there could be a delay in finding an alternative.

What We Provide

We offer advice and support on:

  • Equipment and/or home adaptations to meet your needs
  • Alternatives if adaptation is not feasible

Typical adaptations include:

  • Grab rails and banisters
  • Level access (where feasible)
  • Easier-to-use taps and handles
  • Kitchen and bathroom modifications

Assessment Process

Your needs will be assessed by a member of our team. An Adaptations Officer or OT Assistant may triage your case, and if needed, you will be placed on a waiting list to see our Resident Occupational Therapist. This ensures you and your family receive the best possible support.

Completion Timescales

  • Minor adaptations: Aim to complete within 28 days of assessment
  • Major adaptations (over £1,000): Target of 90 days, subject to planning or other approvals

Who Can Apply

You can use the Adaptations Service if:

  • You are a council tenant with Northampton Partnership Homes
  • You or someone in your home has difficulty with daily activities due to a long-term health condition or disability

We may request further information as part of the Occupational Therapy assessment, and sometimes medical evidence is required.

Carrying Out Your Own Adaptations

You must obtain written permission before starting any works yourself. Requirements include:

  • Our approval in advance
  • Use of qualified and insured contractors
  • Adherence to all relevant standards and regulations

Please notify us when works are completed so we can inspect and ensure they meet our standards. Residents choosing to carry out adaptations independently are responsible for the full cost of the works. We only refuse permission if the works are unsuitable, do not meet standards, or could compromise safety or future use of the home.

External Works and Planning Permission

External works (such as ramps) may require planning permission or other statutory approvals. If we are delivering the adaptation, we will manage these approvals for you. If you arrange works independently, you are responsible for obtaining the necessary permissions.

Funding for Adaptations

We will fund minor and most major adaptations, if:

  • They are assessed and recommended by our Adaptations Service
  • They meet our eligibility criteria
  • The works are arranged and approved by us

We will not fund independently arranged adaptations unless formally approved as part of our process.

Contacting Us

You can contact the Adaptations Service directly to request an initial assessment. Family members or friends may also request an assessment on your behalf with your consent.

Home improvements