Adapting a bathroom for mobility needs can make a huge difference in daily life — but it can also come with a significant cost. The good news is that you may be eligible for a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) to help cover the cost of installing a disabled bathroom, walk-in shower, or wet room.
At Showering Easy, we regularly work with families across Hertfordshire and North London who receive grants to make their homes safer and more accessible. This guide explains how the grant works, who qualifies, and how we can support you through the process.
What Is a Disabled Facilities Grant?
A Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is a local government grant designed to help cover the cost of necessary adaptations in the home for people with disabilities or long-term health conditions.
In the context of bathrooms, this can include:
Installing a level access shower or wet room
Replacing a bath with a walk-in shower
Fitting grab rails, seats, or anti-slip flooring
Adjusting toilet or basin height
Widening doors for wheelchair access
Improving lighting and ventilation
How Much Can You Receive?
In England, the maximum grant amount is £30,000, although the actual amount awarded will depend on:
Your household income and savings
The cost of the work required
An assessment by your local council or occupational therapist
In many cases, eligible applicants receive partial or full funding — especially when the adaptations are considered essential for safety, independence, or daily care.
Who Is Eligible?
You may qualify for a DFG if:
You or someone in your home has a disability or health condition that affects mobility or personal care
The property being adapted is their main residence
You own or rent the property (council, housing association, or private rental)
An occupational therapist has assessed the need and confirmed the adaptations are necessary
The grant is available to homeowners, tenants, and landlords who are adapting a property for a disabled occupant.
What Bathroom Adaptations Are Covered?
Adaptations must be considered “necessary and appropriate” for the disabled person’s needs and “reasonable and practical” for the property. Common DFG-funded bathroom works include:
Replacing a bath with a level-access or walk-in shower
Installing a full wet room
Anti-slip safety flooring
Fold-down shower seats and accessible controls
Grab rails and hand supports
Raised toilets or accessible washbasins
Half-height carer screens for assisted showering
See also: Accessible Bathrooms: What to Include for Maximum Comfort and Safety
How to Apply for a Grant
Contact your local council
Ask to speak to the housing adaptations or disabled facilities team.Get an occupational therapy assessment
A professional will visit your home and assess the person’s needs.Submit your application
This includes financial checks, details of your home, and quotes from approved installers.Wait for approval
Approval can take several weeks. Once approved, the council will agree to fund the work.Appoint an installer
You can choose a trusted contractor like Showering Easy, and we’ll handle the installation to the council’s specifications.
How Showering Easy Can Help
We regularly support clients through the DFG process. Here’s how we help:
Free home surveys to assess feasibility and options
Fixed-price quotes suitable for DFG applications
Experience working with councils and OT referrals
Accessible designs that meet funding criteria and look great
Fast, respectful installations with minimal disruption
Read next: Can I Install a Level Access Shower in Place of a Bath?
What If You Don’t Qualify for a Grant?
Even if you don’t meet the criteria for a DFG, we can still help make your bathroom safer and more accessible with:
Flexible options to suit your budget
Advice on VAT relief (many accessibility adaptations are zero-rated)
Financing options or phased installation plans
Ready to Apply or Learn More?
Whether you’ve just started looking into funding, or already have approval, Showering Easy can help you every step of the way.
We serve clients throughout Hertfordshire and North London, offering:
Accessible bathroom designs
Walk-in showers and wet rooms
Full bathroom conversions
Expert, friendly service
Book your free home survey today to discuss your needs, receive a quote for your grant application, and explore what’s possible for your home.
