A CITY council team is in the running for a national award.

The five-strong Carlisle City Council disabled facilities grants team has been shortlisted for the DFG Adaptations Service of the Year award in this year’s Foundations National Healthy Housing Awards.

The award recognises ‘excellent practice in delivering adaptation in the home through disabled facilities grants’.

One of the team, Loren Park, has also been shortlist for the Caseworker of the Year award.

Cllr Elizabeth Mallinson, portfolio holder for communities, health and wellbeing, said: “What makes our team different, is that we have the experience and knowledge in place to deliver an excellent service.

“The team is fully committed to delivering a service that suits the needs of our customers and our delivery partners.

“The introduction of a private occupational therapist service within the team and then an in-house trusted assessor has had a massive impact, the independent referrals now account for around one-third of referrals that are coming through the adaptation team.

“I’m delighted that the team has been recognised nationally.

“Their work makes a massive difference to their customers’ lives - making it easier and safer to stay living in their own home.”

The ceremony for the National Healthy Housing Awards 2022, organised by Foundations, takes place on Tuesday, December 6, at the National Football Museum in Manchester.

A range of financial assistance is available to provide aids and adaptations, so that people who need help to gain better access to, or within their homes, can maintain their independence for as long as possible.

Items which can be included are stairlifts, level access showers, ramps, and ground floor extensions for bedrooms/ensuite shower rooms, among other work.

Independent living grants are also available for stairlifts, level access facilities, ramps, or any other works to enable people to stay safe in their homes.

There are grants available with a maximum of £10,000.

For more information about the grants that are available, contact 01228 817200, or email dfg@carlisle.gov.uk.

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