Is There Such a Thing as Free Stairlifts for Pensioners?

Is there such a thing as free stairlifts for pensioners? This is a common question following retirement, as people keep a closer eye on their savings and spending.

If you’re experiencing poor mobility and rely on your pension, you may be wondering if there’s access to free stairlifts for pensioners. To explore whether you can access grants for mobility equipment, read on.

 

What is the Cost of a Stairlift?

Before we explore whether free stairlifts for pensioners are available, let’s find out more about the cost of a stairlift. Stairlift costs in the UK vary, depending on various factors, such as stairlift type, customisation, and installation complexity.

The average cost of a stairlift starts at roughly £1,000+ for a straight stairlift and roughly £3,000+ for a curved stairlift, depending on installation complexity. However, this price range can differ.

 

How Do You Qualify for a Free Stairlift as a Pensioner?

Free stairlifts for pensioners are readily unavailable, and the only way to get partial help to cover costs or have stairlift costs completely covered (meaning you’d potentially get it for free) is by applying for grants and funding.

However, most grants or funding are only available with proven eligibility. Let’s take a look at some common steps taken to prove eligibility.

 

Mobility Assessment

Grants are typically designed to help individuals, including pensioners, who are disabled or have poor mobility. Stairlifts for the elderly will only be available with costs covered if you complete a mobility assessment to prove your mobility challenges and physical limitations.

 

Income Assessment

While some may think stairlifts for pensioners should always be free, this simply can’t be the case. The grants and funding available are in place to assist pensioners who lack the funds to purchase a stairlift to aid mobility. This means you must prove that you’re on a low income or receive certain benefits, such as Income Support.

 

Property Ownership Assessment

To apply for funding from the likes of the Disabled Facilities Grant, you must be a homeowner, council tenant, private tenant, or a housing association tenant.

Please note that other assessments to confirm eligibility for funding for stairlift installation may differ, and more information may be required.

 

Can You Get a Grant for a Stairlift in the UK?

Yes, you can get a grant for a stairlift in the UK. Grants are available to help cover the cost of a stairlift. This could be through a government grant that you may be eligible for if you’re a pensioner seeking help with stairlift costs.

While there may not be such a thing as free stairlifts for pensioners specifically, there are certainly ways to get support with your stairlift purchase.

 

Type of Grants or Funding You Could Be Eligible for

While it may prove difficult to get a free stairlift for pensioners, there are two main grants available that you may be eligible for. Follow on as we learn more about potential grants and funding for your stairlift.

 

1 – 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’. This will prove that you have difficulty using the stairs and that a stairlift is a suitable option for your home.

 

2 – Charity Funding

There are charitable organisations that help those in need who are disabled and struggling with mobility. One of which is the Independence at Home charity.

They offer grants that can be used to fund your stairlift. It’s important to note that someone else has to apply for this for you, and 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 struggling with specific health issues 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’re disappointed that pensioners are not eligible for a completely free stairlift, or perhaps you are not eligible for the grants or funding that are currently available, don’t worry. At Halton Stairlifts, we have solutions available to help ease the overall cost of having a stairlift installed.

 

Reconditioned Stairlifts

While reconditioned stairlifts aren’t free for pensioners, they’re 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 resale.

Cheaper than brand new models, you can purchase a reconditioned model for a much lower price. At Halton Stairlifts, we have a full range of reconditioned stairlifts for pensioners available to help minimise costs.

 

Rental Stairlifts

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 pay a low monthly rental fee for as long as you need it.

Renting a stairlift is most cost-effective over a short period. At Halton Stairlifts, we have a selection of stairlifts to hire if you’re a pensioner seeking a temporary mobility solution as you wait for grant funding to be approved.

 

Flexible Payments

Most stairlift companies will offer monthly flexible payments. At Halton Stairlifts, we offer flexible payment options for all customers who shop with us. Our flexible finance plans help you spread the cost instead of having to pay in one lump sum.

 

Speak to Us at Halton Stairlifts Today

At Halton Stairlifts, 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 today and get a free quote on new and reconditioned stairlifts. We’ve got some of the best stairlift prices around and cheaper alternatives to help if you’re a pensioner looking for a less expensive stairlift model.

Speak to our expert team today about getting the best value for money for your independence. We look forward to hearing from you!