DISABLED and older people across Redditch are set to receive more than £50,000 in additional funding thanks to an extra £40m being added to the Government’s Disabled Facilities Grant.

The grant is distributed to local councils and Redditch Borough Council will be getting £50,158 on top of their current funding, which will typically be used for improvements to housing for disabled people, such as the fitting of level access showers and stair lifts.

Care and support minister Norman Lamb, said: “For people with disabilities and older people, even the simplest things such as walking, getting up the stairs and climbing in and out of the bathtub can become difficult.

“We know that most people want to remain independent and be supported in their own home as far as possible. This funding will help people make the necessary practical changes to help them remain in their own home and prevent or even postpone the development of health and care needs.”

Deputy chief executive of Redditch Borough Council Sue Hanley, added: “This announcement of extra funding for local services was very welcome.

“Disabled facilities grants are a key part of work to support people to continue living independently in their own homes, and we have long supported the scheme. Over 225 homes in Redditch have been improved under it over the last three years and we look forward to continuing that work.

“The council will consider how this money, along with all its finances, can be best used to support local priorities early in the new year as it puts together the next medium-term financial plan.”