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Aids and adaptations

Get the help you need at home to make you feel more comfortable and secure.

Can Riverside help me?

We may be able to make changes to your home if you or someone in your household has a disability, health condition or mobility need. Adaptations can help make everyday activities easier, improve safety and support independent living. Depending on your needs, this could include anything from grab rails and handrails to ramps, stair lifts or accessible bathing facilities.

What adaptations could I get?

The adaptations available will depend on your needs and your home. These can range from small changes to larger improvements. 

Minor adaptations

Small changes that can make everyday tasks safer and easier.

    Examples:

    • Grab rails
    • Handrails
    • Lever taps
    • Small ramps
    • Door entry systems


    These can be requested directly from our Customer Service Centre. 

    Major adaptations

    Larger changes that may require an assessment.

    Examples:

    • Level-access showers
    • Stair lifts
    • Hoists
    • Wheelchair ramps
    • Widened doorways


    You will need a recommendation from an Occupational Therapist (OT) via your Local Authority.

    Equality and inclusion

    We support all protected characteristics and do not discriminate. Our policy has been assessed for equality impact. 

    View our policy

    Common questions

    Everything you need to know about requesting an adaptation, from assessments and timescales to funding and approvals. 

    Am I eligible? 
    • Available to customers and their households, including properties managed by agents
    • Not available for leaseholders, owner occupiers, shared ownership, or Right to Buy customers
    • Only minor adaptations for properties on regeneration sites unless the project lasts 5+ years
    How do I request a minor adaptation?

    Contact us on 0345 111 0000.

    We'll discuss your needs and arrange any suitable minor adaptations. In some cases, we may ask for an Occupational Therapist (OT) assessment before work can go ahead.

    How do I request a major adaptation?
    • Contact your local council to request an Occupational Therapist (OT) assessment.
    • The OT will assess your needs and make recommendations.
    • We'll review the recommendations and let you know the next steps.
    • If approved, we'll arrange the work and keep you updated.
    How long does it take?

    We aim to complete:

    • Minor adaptations within 28 days of approval
    • Major adaptations within 6 months of approval

    Timescales can vary depending on the type of work and any assessments required.

    Will I need to pay?

    Funding arrangements vary depending on the type of adaptation and your circumstances. We'll explain any funding or approval requirements during the process.

    What if my home cannot be adapted?

    Sometimes an adaptation may not be practical or suitable for your home. If this happens, we'll discuss alternative options and support available to help meet your needs.

    Who maintains the adaptation?
    • We maintain adaptations after the product warranty expires if they’re part of the property’s fixtures
    • Service charges may apply for mechanical adaptations (e.g., stair lifts, ceiling hoists)
    Can I be refused?

    We may refuse if:

    • The occupancy is temporary
    • The property cannot be altered as requested
    • Planning or legal restrictions apply
    • The adaptation poses a health and safety risk
    • The adaptation reduces bedroom count
    • The need is not identified by an OT
    • The property is in disrepair or part of a regeneration scheme

    If refused, we’ll explain why and help you find alternative options if needed.

    What can I expect from Riverside?
    • Consider every request and respond promptly
    • Complete minor adaptations within 28 days of approval
    • Complete major adaptations within 6 months of approval (unless exceptional circumstances apply)
    • Use approved contractors
    • Provide clear information and support throughout the process

    Appeals and complaints

    If you’re unhappy with our service, complaints are handled under our Complaints Policy and Customer Feedback Procedure. 

    Make a complaint Complaints process View our complaints policy