Mobility Aids Grant
The Mobility Aids Grant can help pay for basic works needed to address mobility difficulties at home. The current maximum is EUR8,000, covering up to 100% of approved qualifying costs where assessable household income is up to EUR37,500.
Direct answer
This grant is for a basic suite of works to address mobility problems, primarily but not exclusively associated with ageing. Applications are made through the local authority for the area where the home is located.
Key facts
- Maximum grant: EUR8,000.
- Income ceiling: assessable household income up to EUR37,500 after applicable disregards and deductions.
- The grant can cover up to 100% of approved qualifying costs.
- It is generally for smaller mobility works rather than major adaptation projects.
- Work must be approved before it starts.
What can it cover?
Current official examples include grab rails, access ramps, accessible showers, stairlifts, fixed-track hoists and other minor works considered necessary by the housing authority to facilitate mobility needs.
This may be more appropriate than the Housing Adaptation Grant where the work is relatively limited and directly about moving safely around the home.
Income test
The current income limit is EUR37,500 after applicable disregards and deductions. For the fuller explanation, see how household income is assessed.
OT and medical requirements
The application process includes a doctor's certificate. The local authority may require an occupational therapist assessment depending on the work and circumstances. Local authority guidance says an OT assessment may be arranged by the council, or an applicant can employ an OT privately and recoup up to EUR250 as part of the grant where approved and within the grant limit.
Do not assume every grab rail or minor adaptation needs a private OT report before you contact the council. Ask your local authority what it needs for the specific work.
How to apply
- Contact your local authority or download the current application form.
- Complete the grant, household, property and income sections.
- Have the doctor's certificate completed.
- Include an OT report where the local authority requires one.
- Attach quotations and income evidence.
- If renting, include landlord permission and RTB tenancy evidence where required.
- Submit the application and wait for approval.
- Complete approved works and follow the council's payment process.
FAQ
How much is the Mobility Aids Grant?
Up to EUR8,000, or the approved cost of works if lower.
What is the income limit?
Assessable household income must be up to EUR37,500 after applicable deductions and disregards.
Can I get a grant for a stairlift?
Possibly. Stairlifts are a listed example, but the local authority must approve the work.
Can I get a grant for an accessible shower?
Possibly. Accessible showers are listed as a mobility-aids measure.
Can I get a grant for grab rails?
Possibly. Grab rails are listed as an eligible type of work.
Is the Mobility Aids Grant only for older people?
No. It is primarily, but not exclusively, associated with ageing and addresses mobility needs.
Do I need to receive a disability payment?
The official test is not phrased as a requirement to receive a specific disability payment. The council assesses mobility need, income and the property.
Do I need an occupational therapist?
Sometimes. Ask the local authority what is required for the specific work.
Can tenants apply?
Yes, where the tenancy and landlord-permission requirements are met.
What is the difference between this and the Housing Adaptation Grant?
Mobility Aids is for more basic mobility works. Housing Adaptation is for larger or substantial disability-related adaptations.
Apply through your local authority
These grants are administered by local authorities. Use the national information to understand the scheme, then get the current form and local submission details from the council for the area where the home is located.
Official sources
Before you apply
This guide is general information only. Confirm the current rules with your local authority or the official source before applying, starting work or signing a contract.