Following retirement, most people keep a closer eye on their savings and spending. If you’re experiencing problems with mobility and relying on your pension, you may be asking the question – ‘is there such a thing as free stairlifts for pensioners?’. So, can you get a stairlift for free?
In this blog post we take a look at how you can access grants for mobility equipment, which you should definitely make use of and benefit from if you are eligible for a grant or a free stairlift. Find all this plus some other cost-effective options for installing a stairlift.
Can I Get A Grant For A Stairlift UK?
Yes, you can get a grant for a stairlift in the UK. These grants are available to help you find the cost of a stairlift if you live in the UK. This could be through a government grant or other grants you could be eligible for if you are a pensioner in the UK and looking for a grant to help with the investment that stairlifts bring.
Whilst there might not be such a thing as free stairlifts for pensioners specifically, there are ways to get support with your stairlift purchase. From second-hand stairlifts to finance options, you’re sure to find a way that suits your budget for stairlift installation.
How Much Does a Stairlift Cost?
So you can weigh up the cost versus the value of a stairlift, we thought it would be helpful to share ‘how much does a stairlift cost?‘. According to a Which? magazine survey, the average cost of a brand new stairlift is between £1,500 and £4,500. The price varies depending on the make, model, and type of stairlift needed.
The Type of Grants or Funding You Could Be Eligible For
While you may not be able to get a free stairlift if you are a pensioner, there are some grants available that you may be eligible for. Learn more about these grants and funding for your stairlift down below.
The Disabled Facilities Grant
The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) allows you to apply for funding for home adaptations. To qualify for a free stairlift, you must have a disability, own the property or be a tenant, and live in the property for at least five years after the equipment is installed.
You can apply for the Disabled Facilities Grant through your council. They will also assess whether the equipment is ‘necessary and appropriate to meet the disabled person’s needs’. So if you have difficulty using the stairs, a stairlift is a suitable option for your home.
Charity Funding
There are charitable organisations that help those in need who are disabled and struggling with mobility.
The Independence At Home charity is there to help you. They offer grants up to £2000 which you can use to fund your stairlift, although it is important to note that someone else has to apply for this for you, you cannot apply for the grant yourself. This could be a nurse or social worker who applies on your behalf.
Another charity to note if you are a female pensioner is the Margaret’s Fund. This is a charity tailored towards women living in need in the UK. Their grants offer a small helping hand to those in need and requiring disability equipment such as a stairlift.
Other Options to Consider
If you are disappointed that pensioners are not eligible for a completed free stairlift, or perhaps you are not eligible for the grants or funding that is currently available, do not fear. We have some alternative solutions for you at Halton Stairlifts that you should be aware of if you are concerned about the cost of stairlifts. Read on to find out more.
Reconditioned Stairlifts
Whilst they’re not free for pensioners, reconditioned stairlifts are a more affordable option if you are worried about the cost.
Reconditioned stairlifts are used stairlifts that have been restored to their new condition for re-sale. Cheaper than brand new models, you can purchase a reconditioned model for around £1695.
If you’re not sure whether a pre-loved stairlift is for you, take a look at our blog post ‘Are reconditioned stairlifts reliable?’ to help you find out more. You can also ask Halton Stairlifts about our 0% pay in four option, which will allow you to spread your payments.
Renting a Stairlift
Stairlift rental is another low-cost option that can suit the needs of pensioners or those on a smaller budget. Hiring a stairlift means you can pay a low monthly rental fee for as long as you need it. Renting a stairlift is most cost-effective over a short period of time. It can serve as a temporary solution as you wait for grant funding to be approved.
Speak to Us at Halton Stairlifts Today
We want to ensure that all of our customers are taken care of and continue to have the gift of their independence, which is why we will do all we can to help you find a stairlift solution within your budget.
The expert team at Halton Stairlifts can give you more advice on the best stairlift options for you as a pensioner.
Call us on 0800 644 7766 and get a FREE quote on new and reconditioned stairlifts. We’ve got some of the best stairlift prices around, and cheaper alternatives, so speak to us about getting the best value for money for your independence. We look forward to hearing from you!
Neil is the founder of Halton Stairlifts. He has years of experience installing stairlifts across the UK. With an eagerness to help those with mobility issues get up the stairs, Neil understands how important it is for a seamless and straightforward approach to installing stairlifts to help those in need quickly.