April 17, 2026 | Terry Smith Who is eligible for stairlift grants and funding? If you or a family member is finding the stairs difficult or unsafe, you may be wondering whether financial help is available to cover the cost of a stairlift. In the UK, stairlift funding is most commonly provided through the Disabled Facilities Grant. This guide explains who is eligible for stairlift grants and funding, what councils look for, and what might affect your application. What is a stairlift grant? A stairlift grant is financial support designed to help people with a disability or long‑term health condition move safely around their home. In England, the main source of funding is the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG). This is a government‑funded grant, but it is managed by your local council. Stairlifts are one of the most commonly approved home adaptations when they are assessed as necessary and appropriate. Who can apply for stairlift grants? You may be eligible for a stairlift grant if all of the following apply: You have a disability or long‑term health condition Using the stairs is difficult, painful, or unsafe A stairlift would help you access essential areas of your home, such as the bedroom or bathroom You live in the property where the stairlift will be installed Eligibility is based on need, not age. While many applicants are older adults, younger people with mobility conditions can also qualify. What conditions may qualify for stairlift funding? A wide range of conditions can make someone eligible, including: Arthritis or joint problems Neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis Stroke or brain injury Long‑term balance issues Severe breathlessness or heart conditions Muscle weakness or mobility impairment You do not need a specific diagnosis. What matters is how your condition affects your ability to use the stairs safely. Does home ownership affect eligibility? No. You can usually apply for a stairlift grant if you: Own your home Rent privately Live in housing association accommodation If you rent, your landlord will normally need to permit the adaptation. Councils are used to handling this as part of the process. Is stairlift funding means‑tested? For adult applicants, the Disabled Facilities Grant is usually means‑tested. This means the council may look at: Income and benefits Savings and investments Household circumstances Based on this assessment, you may receive: Full funding Partial funding, with a contribution required Advice on alternative options if funding is limited If the grant is for a child, it is not normally means‑tested. Do you need an occupational therapist assessment? Yes. An occupational therapist (OT) assessment is a key part of the process. An OT will usually visit your home to assess: How you currently manage the stairs The risks involved Whether a stairlift is the most suitable solution Funding is approved when the stairlift is considered necessary and appropriate to meet your daily living needs. Does the type of stairlift affect eligibility? Not directly, but it can affect the decision. Councils will usually approve the most practical and cost‑effective solution for your home. This may be: A straight stairlift A curved stairlift if your staircase requires it If a curved stairlift is the only safe option, it can still be approved, provided it is justified by the assessment. Can you get a stairlift grant if you already bought one? In most cases, no. Funding usually needs to be approved before the stairlift is purchased and installed. If you buy a stairlift privately first, the council may not reimburse you. This is why it is important to seek advice early if funding may be needed. What if you are not eligible for a stairlift grant? If you do not qualify for council funding, there may still be ways to reduce the cost, including: VAT relief on stairlifts Choosing a more affordable straight stairlift Exploring alternative adaptations A reputable local provider can help you understand your options without pressure. How Felgains can help Felgains has over 45 years’ experience supporting people across Ipswich, Suffolk and East Anglia. We regularly help customers: Understand whether they may be eligible for stairlift funding Prepare for occupational therapist assessments Explore suitable stairlift options for their home There is no obligation and no hard selling. Speak to a trusted stairlift advisor If you would like clear, honest advice about stairlift grants and funding, our team is here to help. Call 01473 741144 or visit our Ipswich showroom to speak to a trusted advisor. Get in touch Got a question or want to send us a message? Let’s talk.