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DFG for 3 year old, is it worth even applying?

NAS83125

Hi, 

My little boy is 3 and on the pathway to being diagnosed with ASD. He currently has to share a room with his 1 year old brother but he can't anymore, he gets angry and frustrated and can lash out, he is also a terrible sleeper waking up in the early hours for hours at a time wide awake singing to himself and wanting to go downstairs to play, he's keeping everyone up at night. So we desperately need a bedroom downstairs for him so we can all rest and he can be happy. We have a garage we would convert. Someone told me about the disabled facilities grant. Is it worth applying for in these circumstances or is it for physical disabilities? Thank you. 

  • Hi it’s not  just for physical disabilities. However it depends on how understanding and aware of autism the assessors are.  Normally this is an occupational therapist. You make an application to your local council who then assess the need. I would definitely apply but it might be helpful to have a letter from your GP or other professional to say the effects on you and your family, it affects safety of family members  and  therefore it is necessary for your little boy to have his own bedroom. The council officer needs to be satisfied that the works are “necessary and appropriate to meet the disabled person’s needs”. 
    Have a look at the guidance to local  authorities it’s long but in particular 1.2 includes autistic people and B4.8 safety in the home. 

    www.gov.uk/.../disabled-facilities-grant-dfg-delivery-guidance-for-local-authorities-in-england