Policy context

The Equality Act 2010 imposes a duty on landlords to make ‘reasonable’ adjustments to accommodate disabled residents. The Act defines a disabled person as a person with a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on his or her ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. Detailed information on the Equality Act 2010 definition of disability is available via the link.

The scope of conditions that fall within the term ‘disability or long-term-health-condition' is very broad, and no two cases will be alike. Decisions will be made in a case-by-case person-centred way, taking full account of the residents’ needs, available solutions, and the cost, with full regard of legal obligations.

The Regulator of Social Housing requires Housing 21 as a registered provider to:

• Clearly communicate to tenants and relevant organisations how they will assist tenants seeking housing adaptations services.
• Co-operate with tenants, appropriate local authority departments and other relevant organisations so that a housing adaptations service is provided to tenants.

Housing 21 aims to:

• Future proof its homes at the design stage and as part of major work programmes to minimise/eliminate the need to undertake major adaptations.
• Encourage the use of well-designed and aesthetically pleasing adaptations.
• Ensure that the needs of residents are proactively identified and that they are aware of aids and adaptations available to them.
• Ensure timely information and advice is communicated following a request.
• Ensure there are clear channels of communication and established joint working practices with local authority partners.
• Comply with current good practice guidance and legislation.

This policy covers:

• Aids and adaptations - equipment to support health issues and disabilities, including induction loops, commodes, specialist furniture.
• Assistive technology to assist someone with memory related tasks these can be:
  • Safety related – e.g., fall or door sensors, automated shut off devices,
  • Fire Safety related– e.g., vibrating pillows, light sensors
  • Health or care related – e.g., telecare/telehealth, monitoring systems.
  • Reminders/information devices e.g., Alexa

This policy does not cover:

• General property alterations that are not linked to a disability/health condition.