How can Local Authorities Buy WashPods?
Local Authorities (LAs) across the UK are using various procurement routes to fund WashPod Disabled wetrooms, helping to simplify disability grant processes for home adaptations.
- Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is ideal for internal models like the Internal Compact, especially popular for its wheelchair accessibility and reusability through our Turnaround Service, which includes rapid installation, removal, and storage by Dignity Access.
- Some LAs use underspent budgets at year-end to purchase models like the External Compact, which offers versatile siting with an internal and external version which can be stored by us until needed.
- Higher-cost external models are being bought using the Procurement for Housing (PfH) Dynamic Purchasing System. We’re registered here, but open to joining others on request.
- In another case, an LA rented a WashPod for a child through Children with Disabilities social care, with rental costs matching previous taxi expenses for the child to be showered daily at a local leisure centre.
Additionally, LAs are finding flexibility through their Housing Assistance Policy (HAP), to allow more creative and discretionary funding solutions for home adaptation needs.
A recent initiative used the Hospital Discharge Fund to purchase 4 internal models (2 Mini, 2 Compact), aiding quicker patient discharge and freeing up hospital beds.
Turnaround Service Brochure
MEETING DFG GUIDANCE
WashPod helps Local Authorities meet the latest DFG Guidance in the following ways:
- Recycle, Re-use and Value for Money (4.40—4.41)
- Motor Neurone Disease (3.14—3.15)
- Working with Private Landlords (3.16—3.17)
- Flat-pack Extensions (5.22-5.23)
- Capital Expenditure (Appendix A) – removeable equipment
- Access to a toilet, bath, shower or wash hand basin (Appendix B74)
- Necessary & Appropriate—to meet current/future needs (B62)and be easily removed if appropriate (B67)
