One of the most common questions we hear is whether you can get a free stairlift in the UK. The short answer is yes — but it depends on your circumstances, where you live, and what funding you qualify for. In this guide we break down every route available, from government grants to charity support.
The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG)
The Disabled Facilities Grant is the main government funding route for stairlifts in the UK. It is administered by your local council and can cover the full cost of a stairlift, including installation. The maximum grant is £30,000 in England, £36,000 in Wales, and £25,000 in Northern Ireland. In Scotland, a similar scheme operates through local authority grants.
To apply, you’ll need an assessment from an occupational therapist (OT) who will visit your home and confirm that a stairlift is necessary for your mobility needs. Your council can arrange this through social services, or you can ask your GP for a referral.
DFG Eligibility Criteria
The DFG is means-tested, which means the council will look at your income and savings to decide how much you need to contribute. However, if you receive any of the following benefits you will automatically qualify for a full grant with no contribution required:
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Universal Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit (with income below the threshold)
If you don’t receive these benefits, you may still qualify for partial funding. The council will carry out a financial assessment and let you know your contribution amount.
How to Apply for a DFG
The application process typically follows these steps:
- Contact your local council — Ask for a home adaptation or disabled facilities grant assessment. You can usually do this through the housing or social services department.
- Occupational therapist visit — An OT will assess your home and confirm a stairlift is the right solution. This may take several weeks depending on your area.
- Financial assessment — The council reviews your income, savings, and benefits to calculate any contribution you need to make.
- Approval and installation — Once approved, the council arranges for a stairlift supplier to install your lift. You may be able to choose your preferred supplier.
Be aware that waiting times vary significantly by council area. Some people receive their stairlift within a few weeks, while others wait several months. If your need is urgent, mention this during your initial contact.
NHS and Social Services
The NHS does not directly fund or supply stairlifts. However, your GP or hospital consultant can refer you to an occupational therapist, which is the first step in the DFG process. NHS community rehabilitation teams may also flag stairlift needs during home assessments after a hospital stay.
Social services can fast-track assessments in urgent cases, such as when a patient cannot return home from hospital without a stairlift. This is sometimes called a ‘hospital discharge’ grant and can be processed much faster than a standard DFG application.
Charity and Benevolent Fund Support
Several UK charities can help fund a stairlift if you don’t qualify for a full DFG or can’t wait for the council process:
| Charity | Who They Help | Type of Support |
|---|---|---|
| Independence at Home | People with long-term illness or disability | Grants for home adaptations including stairlifts |
| SSAFA | Armed forces veterans and families | Funding for mobility aids and home adaptations |
| The Royal British Legion | Ex-service personnel | Home adaptation grants |
| Turn2us | Anyone in financial hardship | Benefits calculator and grant finder tool |
| Age UK | Older adults | Advice, signposting, and some local funding |
VAT Relief on Stairlifts
Even if you don’t qualify for a grant, you may be able to save 20% on the cost of a stairlift through VAT relief. If you have a qualifying disability or long-term illness, stairlifts are zero-rated for VAT purposes. You simply need to sign a declaration form provided by your stairlift supplier — no medical evidence is required. This applies whether you’re buying new or reconditioned.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can pensioners get a free stairlift?
There is no automatic entitlement to a free stairlift based on age alone. However, many pensioners qualify through the DFG, especially if they receive Pension Credit. Age UK can also help identify funding sources in your local area.
How long does the DFG process take?
The process typically takes between 6 weeks and 6 months, depending on your council’s waiting list. Urgent cases linked to hospital discharge can sometimes be fast-tracked to just a few weeks.
Can I get a stairlift grant if I rent my home?
Yes. Both homeowners and tenants can apply for a DFG. If you rent, you’ll need written permission from your landlord before installation. The landlord cannot unreasonably refuse.
What if I’m turned down for a grant?
If your DFG application is refused, you have the right to appeal. You can also explore charity funding, stairlift rental schemes, or reconditioned stairlifts which typically cost 30–50% less than new models. Some suppliers also offer finance plans with monthly payments.