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The Need For Speed

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When the Adaptations Without Delay report highlighted the need for a more proportionate approach to adaptations, Paul Smith, Director of Foundations, saw a way to tackle a key bottleneck; and explains here why he's excited about the creation of Trusted DFG Assessors.

For years, I've witnessed the transformative impact that home adaptations like ramps, stairlifts, and accessible showers can have on people's lives. These aren't just structural changes; they're lifelines, giving individuals the freedom to live safely and independently in their own homes. Yet, too often, the process of getting these adaptations in place is slowed down by long waits for assessments – even in straightforward cases.

That's why I'm so excited to be launching the Trusted DFG Assessor training programme. This new initiative, developed by Foundations in collaboration with the OT Service, is designed to tackle a key bottleneck in the system: the delays caused by a lack of capacity to assess DFG applications.

By equipping non-Occupational Therapists (non-OTs) with the skills to assess straightforward cases, this programme represents a major step forward in speeding up the delivery of adaptations, and ultimately, improving lives.

A proportionate approach to adaptations

The seeds for this programme were planted in 2019, with the publication of the Royal College of Occupational Therapists' Adaptations Without Delay report. Written by Dr. Rachel Russell and colleagues, the report highlighted the need for a more proportionate approach to adaptations.

One of its key findings was that not every case needs the specialist input of a qualified Occupational Therapist. For straightforward situations – such as installing a shower, stairlift, or ramp – appropriately trained assessors can step in. This allows OTs to focus on the more complex cases where their expertise has the greatest impact.

For me, this insight is the basis of the Trusted DFG Assessor Training Programme. It's about creating a system that's not only faster but smarter, making better use of resources while ensuring that everyone gets the support they need.

What the training offers

The Trusted DFG Assessor training is about empowering non-OT professionals to confidently assess and recommend solutions for the most common types of DFG applications:

  • Bathroom adaptations
  • Stairlifts
  • Ramps


These three adaptations account for the majority of DFG applications and are typically required by individuals with stable health conditions. By focusing on this high-demand area, we can significantly reduce backlogs and ensure quicker delivery of vital adaptations.

But the training is more than just a technical course. It also equips participants with the judgment to know when a case should be referred back to an OT. Trusted DFG Assessors will work best when they operate under OT supervision, ensuring that quality and consistency remain at the heart of the process.

Aligning with the Adaptations Without Delay framework

The Trusted DFG Assessor training is built on the principles outlined in the Adaptations Without Delay framework. This framework categorises cases into three levels of intervention:

Universal: Simple solutions that can often be addressed with self-service or retail options.

Targeted: Straightforward cases requiring standard adaptations, which is the focus of Trusted Assessors.

Specialist: Complex cases requiring bespoke solutions and specialist OT input.

By training Trusted Assessors to handle targeted interventions, we can ensure that assessments are proportional to the complexity of each case. This approach reduces delays while maintaining a person-centred focus; something I believe is absolutely critical.

Addressing the challenges

The Adaptations Without Delay report also highlighted some persistent barriers to timely delivery of adaptations, including:

  • Misinterpretations of legislation that unnecessarily require OT involvement in simple cases
  • A lack of guidance on differentiating between straightforward and complex situations
  • The assumption that all 'major adaptations' need specialist assessment


Through this programme, we're tackling these challenges head-on. By providing clear, practical training, we're empowering participants to handle straightforward cases with confidence while ensuring they understand the boundaries of their role.

Why this matters

I'm often asked why I'm so passionate about this programme. The answer is simple: it's about people. Every delay in delivering an adaptation represents a missed opportunity to improve someone's quality of life. It could mean another fall, another hospital admission, or simply another day of unnecessary struggle.

With the Trusted DFG Assessor programme, we're not just speeding up the process, we're changing lives. Local authorities will benefit from reduced waiting times and more efficient use of resources. Occupational Therapists will have the space to focus on complex cases where their skills are most needed. And most importantly, individuals and families will get the support they need, when they need it.

Looking ahead

For me, launching the Trusted DFG Assessor programme is more than a professional milestone, it's a personal mission. I truly believe this initiative has the potential to transform how we deliver adaptations across the UK.

But we can't do it alone. If you're a local authority looking for practical solutions to reduce delays and improve outcomes, I urge you to join our waiting list for the training. Together, we can build a system that works better for everyone, ensuring that no one has to wait longer than necessary for the adaptations they need to live safely and independently.

For more information, contact Foundations today. Let's make the Trusted DFG Assessor programme a turning point in how we support people to thrive in their homes.

Click here to find out more.

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