Ulster Unionist MLA for East Belfast, Andy Allen MBE MLA, has welcomed the allocation of £6.5 million to the Department for Communities to support people with disabilities to adapt their homes, while stressing the need for better support and oversight to ensure adaptations deliver the outcomes people actually need.

Andy Allen MBE MLA said:

“The additional funding for disability adaptations is welcome and will make a real difference to many people who rely on these changes to live independently and safely in their own homes.

“For many individuals and families, adaptations such as accessible bathrooms, ramps, or widened doorways are not optional, they are essential to everyday life and dignity.

“There must also be greater support for people taking forward disabled facilities adaptations to help them navigate what can be a complex and difficult process. Too often, individuals are left trying to manage this system at a time when they are already under significant pressure.

“Unfortunately, over the years I have been contacted by people who experienced serious problems where work was not delivered to the specification required. In some cases, adaptations were completed but simply did not meet the person’s needs or to an acceptable standard. We must make sure the outcomes are right and that they deliver for recipients. That means clear specifications, proper oversight, and work being carried out to the required standard, so adaptations genuinely improve independence and quality of life.

“I would further urge the Minister to explore how the Department can better support making society more accessible for all, particularly when it comes to non-residential buildings. It is my long standing view that the Department should bring forward a dedicated fund to improve accessibility in public and community buildings. Too many people are still excluded from everyday activities simply because buildings have not been designed or adapted with accessibility in mind.

“We must ensure residential and wider accessibility measures keep pace with need and deliver meaningful change for people with disabilities across Northern Ireland.”