Agenda item

Officers provided an update report on the impact of the Covid 19 pandemic on the Disabled Facility Grant (DFG) service and recovery.

Members welcomed the significant increase in the number of jobs that had been completed from the end of May 2021 to September 2021 (raised from 19 to 73 during this period); and also welcomed the positive feedback received from clients who had a DFG carried out.

The circulated report detailed that demand for builders remained significantly higher than normal, with homeowners carrying out home improvements; and that some materials were still difficult to source. It was queried how much of an impact this was having on the service, and if there was alternative ways of souring materials. Officers explained that this was a national problem, with the biggest issue being the shortage of contactors; the majority of contractors were still very busy carrying out the works that had been commissioned during the height of the pandemic. It was explained that the contractors were able to source materials, however there had been a significant rise in the cost of materials. Members were informed that the majority of the DFG works currently being carried out were tasks such as shower conversions; the materials for these types of jobs were easier to source, and there was less demand for plumbers as opposed to general builders. It was added that works relating to extensions had been most affected, however there were still jobs being completed, just at a slower pace than previous years; the Council had taken on additional builders to try and help progress the jobs, and were on a waiting list with contractors.

A discussion took place in regards to the Occupational Therapy (OT) Service and the capacity of the service. It was mentioned that the OT service was at full capacity for a short time, however there was currently a shortage due to staff leaving the service. Officers explained the reasons for the delays in service and the process behind the waiting list system; the report highlighted that there was currently a small waiting list of 15 awaiting release into the system. Despite this, it was confirmed that the flow through the service was working well.

Reference was made to the recent Welsh Government announcement regarding removing the means testing on small and medium sized adaptations. Members asked for information regarding Neath Port Talbot Councils position on this. Officers anticipated that the demand would increase massively if the means testing for small and medium DFGs were simply removed; if a decision was to be made to remove the means testing, it would be necessary to put conditions in place to try and control the demand. It was noted that there was various factors to take into account, particularly around the budget; however, it was important that this was controlled without discriminating against those who genuinely could not afford the works to be completed. Members were informed that discussions had started to take place with Welsh Government regarding the future process, and Officers had started to bring forward ideas; the Council was also working closely with Swansea and Bridgend Councils in order to obtain a regional approach to this. It was added that this was a discretionary measure; therefore, the Council did not have to implement the change.

It was confirmed that a report on this matter will be presented to the Committee in due course, which will give Members the opportunity to share the views and to provide an input into the process, before any decisions were made or implemented.

Members complimented the Department and thanked Officers for their hard work in regards to DFGs.

Following scrutiny, the report was noted.