People with disabilities living in social housing across Roscommon-Galway are receiving Government support of more than €800,000 under the Disabled Persons Grants Scheme for improvements to social housing, according to Minister Denis Naughten.
Minister Naughten said that 90% of the funding will come from central Government, with the remainder allocated by Roscommon-Galway Councils. Improvements covered under the Scheme include grab rails, disabled access ramps and wet rooms. Grants can also be used for home extensions where there is overcrowding.
Confirming the allocation announced by his Cabinet colleague the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government Eoghan Murphy, Minister Denis Naughten added: “It is important that people see the benefits of this funding as soon as possible. The grants allow for improvements and extensions to local social housing. One significant development in the Scheme is that ‘Improvement Works in Lieu’ and extensions to privately owned houses are being allowed, where the occupant is approved for social housing. This will help ease the housing strain in local communities.
“Planning and progress on some of the works under the Scheme is already underway as the Councils were told to proceed with spending up to 65% of funding received last year. Now the total has been agreed even more improvements can happen.
“This funding will allow those with disabilities to continue living at home, in the company of family, friends and neighbours in safety and comfort.”
