If you are looking to install specialised equipment like rise & fall toilets, rise & fall sinks, or extra load smart toilets, the initial cost can be a concern. The good news is that there are several avenues for financial support in the UK, ranging from government grants to tax relief.
While Wash-Able is a supply-only specialist and cannot provide financial advice or assessments directly, we’ve put together this guide to help you navigate the current funding landscape.
Disabled Facilities Grants (DFG)
The most common route for significant home adaptations is the Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG). This is a local council grant designed to help you make necessary changes to your home so you can continue living independently.
As of 2026, the UK government has increased funding for these grants, making it easier for eligible households to access support for high-end equipment such as rise and fall toilets and lifting toilet seats.
- Eligibility: You (or someone living in your property) must have a disability. The council must be satisfied that the work is "necessary and appropriate" to meet your needs.
- What it covers: Major adaptations, which can include purchasing extra-load smart toilets or installing rise-and-fall sinks.
- The Process: You will typically need to contact your local council for a home assessment by an Occupational Therapist (OT).
VAT Relief for Disabled People and Chronic Illness
Many people are unaware that they may not have to pay VAT on certain accessible bathroom products. If you have a long-term chronic illness or a disability, you may qualify for VAT relief, which effectively reduces the price of qualifying equipment.
This relief applies to products specifically designed or adapted for personal use by a disabled person. This often includes:
- Smart toilets and toilet seats that aid cleaning/hygiene.
- Lifting toilet seats and toilet seat risers.
- Grab rails and wall-mounted supports.
- Specialist extra load smart toilets.
When purchasing from Wash-Able, you will usually just need to sign a self-declaration form confirming your eligibility on the website at checkout. It’s worth noting that "frailty" due to old age doesn't always qualify on its own; the relief is tied to a chronic condition or disability, such as arthritis, diabetes, cancer, etc.
Local Council "Minor Adaptations"
If you only require smaller additions, such as grab rails or basic toilet seat risers, your local council may provide these free of charge. Most councils have a budget for "minor adaptations" (usually defined as works costing under £1,000).
To access this, you should request a needs assessment from your local social services. An Occupational Therapist will visit your home to recommend which specific aids will help you most.
Charitable Grants and Other Support
If you don't qualify for a DFG or need additional funds, several UK charities offer grants for independent living equipment:
- Turn2us: A national charity that helps people find grants based on their specific background or medical condition.
- Independence at Home: Provides grants for people with a long-term illness or disability who are in financial need.
Important Reminder
Before purchasing complex equipment like rise and fall toilets or sinks, we highly recommend consulting with a qualified installer or an Occupational Therapist. They will ensure the products you choose are the right fit for your specific requirements and home layout.
