Hello everyone,

We have a couple with a severely disabled child and under HB would be entitled to a 2 bed LHA rate. However they need a sensory room for the baby and our Options Team have no properties available where there may be an extra living room but the rent is not above the 2 bed rate LHA(our clients are in receipt of benefits). I know we would be likely to receive a DHP to make up the difference in the rent but this is unlikely to last past 1 year. Does any one know of any organisations/charities who may be able to help the Client to make up the difference in her rent or give advise re grants etc. It might not be indefinate as we may be able to find a suotable property that is affordable in the future.

My community care law is a little rusty,

However, as far as I can remember, if the requirement for a sensory room is written into the care plan by Social Services as an essential need, then either the LA or NHS should pay for it.
Might be worth contacting a community care law specialist

Thanks Steve, the sensory equpment, care etc is being paid for. The problem is the extra rent she will need to pay in terms of an extra room for the sensory room. I know it can't be covered under LHA rules and a DHP cannot be for an indefinate period. I'm more interested if there are any disability organisations that can fund this for a while.

Why can't the LA/NHS pay for the extra rent if it is essential for the care needs of the child?

Hi Steve, this is what I need to know, the client is snowed under by the whole situation. Maybe we should approach Social Services to see if they can help, although I doubt they wil for the extra rent. I was thinking more of charities/Government grants etc.

Thanks l

Hello Lisa ,
I don't know if these will be of any assistance :
1) Funderfinder @ www.funderfinder.org.uk
2) The Family Fund @ www.familyfund.org.uk

Many thanks Sue
Lisa