April 7, 2026 | Terry Smith How to apply for a stairlift grant in the UK (2026 Guide) If you or a family member is struggling to use the stairs, a stairlift can make a huge difference. The cost can be a concern, but in the UK there are grant options that may help cover some or all of the expense. This guide explains how stairlift grants work in 2026, who can apply, and what the application process usually involves. Is there a stairlift grant available in the UK? Yes. The main source of funding for stairlifts in England is the Disabled Facilities Grant, often shortened to DFG. This is a local council grant designed to help people with a disability live safely and independently in their own home. Stairlifts are commonly approved when they are considered necessary and appropriate. Support is offered by your local authority, so the exact process and timescales can vary depending on where you live. Who can apply for a stairlift grant? You may be able to apply if: You have a long-term illness or disability that makes using stairs difficult or unsafe You own your home, rent privately, or live in a housing association property A stairlift is assessed as necessary to meet your daily living needs The grant is usually means-tested for adults, meaning your income and savings may be taken into account. Grants for children are not normally means-tested. Approval is based on need, not age. Many applicants are older adults, but younger people with mobility conditions can also qualify. What does a stairlift grant usually cover? A stairlift grant can help pay for: Supply and installation of a stairlift Necessary safety adaptations related to stair access Removal of the stairlift if it is no longer needed in the future The exact amount awarded depends on your local council’s assessment and your personal financial situation. Step-by-step: how to apply for a stairlift grant in 2026 1. Contact your local council The process starts with your local council’s housing or adult social care team. You can apply directly or ask your GP, social worker, or healthcare professional to refer you. You do not need to choose a stairlift supplier at this stage, but it doesn’t harm to engage with a company like ours for advice or to assess your options. 2. Occupational therapist assessment If your application progresses, an occupational therapist will usually visit your home. They will assess: How you currently manage the stairs Whether a stairlift is the most suitable solution Whether alternative adaptations could meet your needs This assessment is a key part of the decision process. 3. Financial assessment For adult applicants, the council will carry out a means test. They may ask for details about: Income and benefits Savings and investments Household circumstances This helps determine whether you need to contribute towards the cost. 4. Grant approval If the stairlift is approved, the council will confirm: What work is covered The approved budget Any contribution you are expected to make In some cases, the council may nominate approved suppliers. In others, you can choose your own installer, provided they meet the council’s requirements. 5. Installation Once everything is signed off, the stairlift can be installed. Councils typically require the work to be completed to an agreed specification. How long does a stairlift grant take? Timescales vary widely. Some applications progress within a few weeks, while others can take months, depending on: Local authority workload Assessment availability Complexity of the adaptation If you need a stairlift urgently, it is worth discussing interim options with a specialist supplier. What if you are not eligible for a stairlift grant? If you do not qualify, there are still ways to reduce the cost. VAT relief Most stairlifts are eligible for 0 percent VAT if they are purchased for someone who is chronically sick or disabled. This can reduce the price significantly. Further reading: https://www.felgains.com/blog/can-you-buy-a-stairlift-vat-free/ Charitable funding Some national and local charities offer grants towards mobility equipment. Availability varies, but it is worth checking organisations that support specific conditions. Finance options Some suppliers offer staged payment or finance plans, which can help spread the cost. Getting advice before you apply Even if you plan to apply for a grant, it helps to speak to an experienced stairlift provider early on. They can: Explain whether a stairlift is likely to be approved Provide specifications that meet council requirements Help you understand alternative options if funding is delayed At Felgains, we regularly support customers through the grant process and provide clear, no-pressure advice and stairlift surveys. Thinking about a stairlift or starting a grant application? Speak to a Felgains advisor for clear, honest guidance or book a free home assessment today. Get in touch Got a question or want to send us a message? Let’s talk.