For the programme year 2023-2024, the council has received funding of £3.148m from Government to deliver housing initiatives for vulnerable households, mainly through disabled facilities grants and accessibility adaptations, but also affordable warmth and energy efficiency schemes.

The Housing Capital Programme supports the council’s Housing Strategy 2022-2027, which is building towards ‘quality and accessible homes for all’ and among its objectives looks to improve health and wellbeing by enabling independent living and improving the thermal efficiency of homes.

Local resident Diane had high praise for the council’s Home Improvement Agency after they installed a number of accessibility adaptations for her mother, helping her to live more safely and independently at her home in Billinge.

Diane said: “You really give excellent service. Your work at my elderly mum’s house has done wonders for her mobility, and her feelings of safety and confidence. Keep up the good work!”

During 2022-2023, the Housing Capital Programme delivered:

• 584 Disabled Facilities Grants, providing 214 level access showers and wet-rooms, 80 disabled access ramps to properties, 203 lifts and hoists, and nine property extensions.
• Housing Financial Assistance allocated to 29 properties for major heating upgrades and other works to remove home hazards.
• 45 properties received improved thermal insulation.
• 85 properties received Emergency Fund Minor Works, with the majority relating to heating system repairs and controls.
• Minor structural adaptations were carried out at 526 properties, including installation of external steps and rails.

Councillor Richard McCauley, St Helens Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Planning, said:

“Our homes and our health are strongly linked so it’s vital that housing options are suitable, safe and connected – complementing the award-winning work we’re undertaking to tackle health inequalities in the borough.

“The support that our Housing Capital Programme is providing every year can be truly transformative for the most vulnerable in our communities, particularly older residents, and those living with a disability, or struggling to heat their homes efficiently.

“Our futures are always brighter when we have a place to call home that is safe and warm, and which enables us to live well and independently.”

For more information about the Home Improvement Agency and the help they can provide, visit https://hia.sthelens.gov.uk