Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Interdepartmental

Housing Adaptations

Design Toolkit

Contents

Index Page

Contents ..................................................................................................................................................................... 2

Foreword .................................................................................................................................................................... 4

Introduction/Background ............................................................................................................................................ 5

Process for Adaptation Provision ................................................................................................................................ 6

Occupational Therapy Assessment/Option Appraisal ................................................................................................. 6

Bespoke Solutions ...................................................................................................................................................... 6

Collaborative Working: Housing and Health ............................................................................................................. 7

Collaborative Working: Pre-recommendation ........................................................................................................... 7

HSC Trust Authorisation Process ............................................................................................................................ 7

Table 1: HSC Trusts Authorisation Levels ................................................................................................................... 8

Collaborative Working: Post Recommendation .......................................................................................................... 9

Adaptation process - Housing ..................................................................................................................................... 9

Section 1 Minor Adaptations Select List – Social Housing

Minor Adaptations Select List – Social Housing ........................................................................................................ 11

Access to Adaptations on Select List ........................................................................................................................ 11

Table 2: Minor Adaptations Select List - Social Housing ........................................................................................... 12

Section 2 Standard Technical Speciﬁcations for Minor Adaptations

Standard Technical Speciﬁcations for Minor Adaptations .......................................................................................... 14

Option 1 Diagonal Rail at WC .................................................................................................................................... 15

Option 2 Horizontal/Diagonal Rail at WC ................................................................................................................. 15

Option 3 Vertical Rail at WC .................................................................................................................................... 16

Option 4 Folding Down Hinge Supported Rail at WC ................................................................................................ 16

Option 5 Horizontal/Vertical Rail at Bath .................................................................................................................... 17

Option 6 Horizontal/Vertical Rail in Shower ............................................................................................................... 17

Option 7 Vertical Rail at Doorway .............................................................................................................................. 18

Option 8 External Handrails ....................................................................................................................................... 19

Option 9 Internal Stair-rail .......................................................................................................................................... 20

Section 3 Communication Formats

Communication Formats .......................................................................................................................................... 22

Completion of Minor Adaptation Recommendations Form ...................................................................................... 24

Completion of Major Adaptations Recommendations Form ..................................................................................... 25

Minor Adaptations Recommendation Form ............................................................................................................. 27

Major Adaptations Recommendation Form .............................................................................................................. 29

Major Adaptation Provision Occupational Therapy Response to Plans ..................................................................... 33

Major Adaptation Provision Occupational Therapy Final Inspection .......................................................................... 34

Completion of Housing Needs Report ....................................................................................................................... 35

Occupational Therapy Housing Needs Report ........................................................................................................... 37

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Index Page

Section 4 Design Principles

Design Principles ...................................................................................................................................................... 41

General Shower Room Design Symbols .................................................................................................................. 42

Bathroom Design Considerations ............................................................................................................................. 43

General Bedroom Design Symbols .......................................................................................................................... 44

Bedroom Design Considerations .............................................................................................................................. 45

Section 5 Space Standards Matrix, Design Templates and Complexity Descriptors

Space Standards, Design Templates and Complexity Descriptors ............................................................................ 47

Table 3: Space Standards Matrix .............................................................................................................................. 48

Level 1 – Ambulant User - Design Templates .........................................................................................................49-56

Level 2 – Independent Wheelchair User - Design Templates ..................................................................................57-65

Level 3 – Assisted Wheelchair User - Design Templates ........................................................................................66-73

Section 6 Speciﬁcation Templates

Speciﬁcation Templates ............................................................................................................................................. 75

Car Hardstanding Speciﬁcation .................................................................................................................................. 76

Level Approach/Ramp Speciﬁcation .......................................................................................................................... 77

External Steps including Handrail Speciﬁcation ......................................................................................................... 79

Doors/Door Widening Speciﬁcations ........................................................................................................................ 81

Stairlift Speciﬁcation ................................................................................................................................................. 82

Through Floor Lift Speciﬁcation ................................................................................................................................ 83

Overhead Tracking Hoist Speciﬁcation ..................................................................................................................... 84

Wash/Dry Toilet Speciﬁcation ................................................................................................................................... 85

Shower Speciﬁcation ................................................................................................................................................ 86

Shower to Replace Bath Speciﬁcation ..................................................................................................................... 90

Over-Bath Shower Speciﬁcation ................................................................................................................................ 94

Outdoor, Supervised Enclosed Area Speciﬁcation .................................................................................................... 96

Section 7 Space Standards Matrix, Design Templates and Complexity Descriptors

Design Brief Guidance for Housing Associations ..................................................................................................... 98

Design Brief Contents Structure for Major Adaptation .............................................................................................. 99

Website links ........................................................................................................................................................... 100

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Foreword

Housing adaptation provision is essential in the delivery of an integrated approach to community

care alongside health, social care and assistive technology services, (see ﬁgure 1 below).

Health and

Well Being

Housing

Adaptations

Assistive

Technology

Social Care

Independent

Living

Figure 1- Integration of services to promote independent living

An accessible home environment enables older and disabled people to live as independently as possible in their own

home. Where environmental barriers exist within the home which prevent or impede access, housing adaptations

play a key role in overcoming those barriers.

The Department for Communities (DfC) and Department of Health (DoH) are fully committed to interdepartmental

collaboration in ensuring effective provision of these services in line with strategic and policy objectives.

Subsequently we are delighted to endorse this revised Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit as an

excellent example of Housing and Health working together to improve outcomes for service users.

The Toolkit was initially implemented in April 2014 as part of the Interdepartmental Review of Housing Adaptations

Services and was developed following extensive collaboration with a range of stakeholders including people with

disabilities, Occupational Therapists and Housing Providers. It incorporates agreed cross sector good practice and

since its introduction has proved to be an invaluable resource, for both health and housing personnel.

Key beneﬁts include a consistent and standardised approach to design principles, space standards and methods of

communication in the delivery of housing adaptations across tenure.

Our departments will continue to monitor its use through the Interdepartmental Housing and Health Adaptations

Programme Board and will carry out a periodic editorial review on a cross sector basis every 3 years.

Professor Suzanne Martin Paul Price

Chief Allied Health Professions Ofﬁcer Director of Social Housing Policy & Oversight

Department of Health Department for Communities

November 2022

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Introduction

The provision of adaptations for people with a disability requires effective joint working between

housing, health, social care and other departments to improve standards and make best use of

available resources. Numerous studies indicate that people with a disability wish to remain and be

cared for in their own homes and adapting properties is key in facilitating that objective.

In Northern Ireland expenditure on housing adaptation provision in 2019/2020 across tenure was £29.8million.

Alongside that, in the same year expenditure in Health and Social Care Trusts for Assistive Technology provision,

including home lifts and minor adaptations equated to approximately £20 million.

In Northern Ireland demand for adaptation services is predicted to increase due to the changing demography.

Challenges include:

• 20,000 permanent wheelchair users with numbers waiting for wheelchair accommodation increasing year on year

• 21.7% of the population aged 16-64 (Apr-Jun 2017) report a long-term illness and or disability (nisra.gov.uk 2017)

• Growing demand for adaptations for adults and children with complex conditions including those with cognitive

impairment whose behaviours can be exacerbated by constraints within their home

• Increasing older population, estimated to be 24.2% of the population in 2043 (Figure 2). As more people live

longer with some form of disability, this will undoubtedly impact on the continued and increasing needs for

adaptations.

This demography indicates that there will be a growing demand for accessible housing. Unfortunately in the current

stock there is a shortage of suitable available housing which will necessitate the need to continue to adapt existing

properties.

2018 2028

2043

16.4% 20.9%

19.8% 19.2%

24.2% 17.6%

62.7% 61.0% 58.2%

0-15 16-64 65+

Figure 2- Ageing population

One of the key objectives of the Department of Social Development/Department of Health Social Services and

Personal Safety (now referred to as DfC/DoH) Interdepartmental Review of Housing Adaptations Services 2016 was

to review the design standards, costs and inter-agency communications underpinning housing adaptations.

At the time a cross sector task group was established along with people with a disability supported by Disability

Action. This group co-produced a comprehensive guide referred to as the Adaptations Design Communications Toolkit

which was implemented in April 2014. This document is a revised and reformatted version, updated and rebranded as

the Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit.

The Toolkit includes:

• A range of minor housing adaptations (Select List), which can be provided by Housing Providers without the need

for referral to Occupational Therapy Services

• Evidence based, consistent and equitable housing adaptation design standards for all tenures

• Improved design formats that help service users to visualise and gain a better understanding of proposed housing

adaptations

• Electronic formatting that facilitates timely and consistent inter and intra-agency communications

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

• Standardised Occupational Therapy communication formats for the completion of:

– housing adaptation recommendations

– accompanying speciﬁcations

– follow up letters relating to plans and completed works

Process for Adaptation Provision

In the delivery of adaptations, statutory duties are devolved from the Department of Health to the Health and Social

Care Trusts. The Trusts are responsible for carrying out an assessment of need to ensure arrangements are made to

provide housing adaptations where deemed necessary and appropriate, in line with regionally agreed best practice

guidance regarding access to adaptations. Trusts have delegated the authority to assess and identify the need

for adaptations to appropriately trained and competent Occupational Therapists in community settings. Following

assessment, having established a need, arrangements for provision are made in collaboration with the appropriate

Housing Provider who will determine if the proposed work is reasonable and practicable.

Occupational Therapy Assessment/Option Appraisal

Access to the adaptation process commences with an assessment of need by an Occupational Therapist. Prior to

determining the need for adaptations, Occupational Therapists consider a range of potential options, to address

identiﬁed difﬁculties with daily living activities. Options may include rehabilitation, assistive technology provision,

specialist equipment or referral to other HSC services.

As part of the clinical reasoning process Occupational Therapists will seek both medical and social information to

inform their decision making in relation to the need for adaptations. Therapists will also in so far as is reasonable to

predict, make recommendations to meet the long-term need of the service user taking account of clinical diagnosis,

prognosis and the likely progression of their condition.

Bespoke Solutions

The design standards outlined in this toolkit are benchmark best practice standards designed to meet a wide range

of needs for people with disabilities and their carers. However, it is important to note that there will be individual

circumstances which necessitate the need for standards to be compromised/reduced or enhanced and customised

as bespoke solutions.

This may be as a consequence of:

• Technical issues such as site restrictions limiting the ability to construct to the recommended standard

• Assessed clinical need necessitating provision of enhanced space to accommodate complex needs and additional

specialised equipment and storage

Bespoke solutions will be discussed and agreed on an interagency basis with close collaboration between

Occupational Therapy Services and the Housing Provider.

Collaborative Working: Housing a

In order to ensure effective outcomes H

and Occupational Therapists will work cl

together at the relevant stages of the ad

process. Joint working will involve the se

user/tenant to ensure a person centred a

to the process.

Figure 3: Collaborative working

nd Health

ousing Providers

osely

aptation

rvice

pproach

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Collaborative Working: Pre-recommendation

Prior to completing a recommendation for a major adaptation the Occupational Therapist will consider the need

for a technical feasibility survey with the Housing Providers/NIHE grants ofﬁce technical specialist. Where there

is a familiarity with the housing stock this may be carried out as a desk top exercise and arranged virtually or may

necessitate a joint visit with the Therapist where circumstances dictate. The survey will enable early discussion

regarding the feasibility of the works in terms of:

• Meeting the assessed clinical need (HSC Trust Occupational Therapy)

• Technical feasibility (Housing Provider- NIHE/Housing Association/HSC Estate Services)

• Value for money (Occupational Therapy/Housing Provider) (See ﬁgure 4)

Value For

Money

Assessment/clinical

Reasoning

Technical

Feasibility

Agreed

Solution

Figure 4: Feasibility of adaptation works

Circumstances where a pre-recommendation survey request may be considered includes but is not exclusive to:

• The extent and scale of the proposed adaptations are likely to incur signiﬁcant cost

• The curtilage of the property, the site layout and topography suggest that technical difﬁculties may arise in the

completion of proposed adaptation works

• Outdoor space is limited and likely to be signiﬁcantly impacted by provision of a major adaptation extension

• The existing property is on an elevated site and suitable access to the property has the potential to be problematic

It is anticipated that such surveys and/or visits will help to manage service user expectation at an early stage of

the process and help to identify a wider range of options where appropriate. This collaboration will also facilitate

agreement regarding bespoke recommendations and speciﬁcations, providing transparency to the process and clarity

regarding the most appropriate and effective solution.

HSC Trust Authorisation Process

Having established the need for adaptations the Occupational Therapist will seek the endorsement of the clinical

decision and appropriate authorisation to process the recommendation within professional structures. To ensure

robust governance arrangements in the approval process a tiered standardised system of authorisation is in place.

These arrangements reﬂect the complexity of need and the resource requirements for the housing adaptations

required to address need as outlined in table 1.

The approval system ensures that high volume, lower cost work can be processed without undue delay. Where there

are complex needs further levels of authorisation are mandatory within the Occupational Therapy governance process

involving presentation of cases to professional panels for authorisation. Decision making and authorisation will include

seeking appropriate multidisciplinary input from HSC staff and technical housing expertise as required. (See ﬁgure 5)

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Occupational

Therapist

Assessment

Engagement

(Health as

required)

Stakeholders

Service User

Multidisciplinary Team

Consultant

Clinical

Need

Established

Engagement

(Housing as

required)

Authorisation

• Complex case

panel

• Authorised

Signatory

Recommendation

to Housing

Provider

Stakeholders

Grants Ocer

Regional Welfare Ocer

Housing Support Ocer

Architect

Designer

Figure 5: HSC Trust Authorisation Process

Table 1: HSC Trusts Authorisation Levels

Minor Adaptations Authorisation Required

A. Minor adaptations

On the select list for social housing.

Do not require Occupational Therapy assessment/

authorisation.

B. Minor adaptations

Grab rails

External hand rails

Stair rails etc.

Occupational Therapists with agreed competencies.

No additional approval/signatory required. Occupational

Therapy Technicians with agreed competencies and

under supervision.

C. Minor adaptations

Showers

Ramps

Graduated steps etc.

Occupational Therapists with agreed competencies. No

additional approval/signatory required.

Major Adaptations Authorisation Required

Internal (within footprint of property)

e.g. signiﬁcant internal structural adaptations including

reconﬁguration of rooms, removal of internal walls,

homelifts etc.

Recommendations must be countersigned by an

Authorised Signatory who will have the necessary

expertise and access to the background information to

conﬁrm the clinical need and appropriateness of the

recommendation.

Designated Trust Occupational Therapy staff

identiﬁed for authorisation of housing adaptations

will be forwarded annually to the HSC Trust Chief

Executive, relevant NIHE Senior management, Housing

Associations and other relevant stakeholders.

External extensions (beyond footprint of property):

e.g. additional bedroom, shower room or signiﬁcant

alternative housing options e.g. bespoke new build

housing schemes.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Collaborative Working: Post Recommendation

As an Occupational Therapy recommendation is being progressed, it may become apparent that it is not technically

feasible to adapt the property as speciﬁed in the recommendation.

In these situations an interagency case management approach is strongly recommended involving relevant

stakeholders from both Housing and Health to explore alternative options or an agreed compromised resolution

within existing space.

Adaptation Process - Housing

Following receipt of the Occupational Therapy recommendation the next step in the adaptation process is dependent

on housing tenure:

• For NIHE stock the delivery of major housing adaptations services is managed by NIHE Asset Management.

• Housing Associations process applications via the Disability Adaptation Grant, which is administered by the NIHE’s

Development Programme Group on behalf of the Department for Communities.

• Private sector properties are managed through the Private Sector Improvement Service (PSIS) within the NIHE

who are responsible for the administration of the Disabled Facilities Grant.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Section 1

Minor Adaptations Select List –

Social Housing

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Minor Adaptations Select List –

Social Housing

The Select List is an agreed range of minor adaptations that do not require the assessment of an

Occupational Therapist for provision in the social housing sector (NIHE/Housing Association stock).

The list has been agreed regionally by all Social Housing Providers for implementation with the

agreed works presented in table 2.

Should the Housing Provider identify potential health and safety issues requiring professional intervention, an

Occupational Therapy assessment may be requested. However, the provider must ensure that any such referrals are

reasonable and justiﬁed so as not to create unnecessary delays for the tenant. In such circumstances it is prudent

for the Housing Provider to proceed with minor adaptation provision, as per the list, while awaiting a more detailed

Occupational Therapy assessment.

Access to Adaptations on Select List

Minor adaptations included in the select list can be accessed in the following ways:

• Social housing tenants can directly contact their social landlord to request provision of the adaptation

• Service users approaching HSC Trusts for provision of these listed adaptations will be signposted to their social

landlord for direct provision without the need for Occupational Therapy involvement

• Other HSC professionals approaching the Occupational Therapy service for provision of these listed adaptations

will be signposted to the appropriate social landlord

• Occupational Therapists can continue to identify and recommend provision of listed adaptations as part of their

overall intervention

It is important to note that completion of any adaptations will be subject to technical feasibility and reasonableness of

provision as determined by the Social Housing Provider

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Table 2: Minor Adaptations Select List - Social Housing

Adaptations that do not require an Occupational Therapy assessment/recommendation.

Clothes Line

Rotary clothes line provision including path leading to clothes line where appropriate

Clothes Rail (internal)

Clothes hanging rails repositioning

Doors

Door saddle removal

Doors

Letter Cage, post box and/or delivery shelf/cage

Doors

Protective edging to doorframes etc.

Doors

Suitable ironmongery provision (e.g. lever in place of knob handles, pull handles and rails

to doors or kicker plates lowering of lock(s)

Electrics

Sockets & cooker mains switch – relocation

Additional outlets at a convenient level

Extractor Fan

Extractor fan installation (with accessible control) where accessible window opening not

feasible. (Over and above standard provision)

Handrail (external)

Handrails at front and/or rear entrance of dwelling

Handrail (external)

Additional handrails or guarding to existing ramps or steps (also to other parts of the

dwelling where necessary)

Handrail (Internal)

Handrails/grab-rails in bathrooms, bedrooms etc.

Handrail (Internal)

Additional handrail or handrails to staircase (also to other parts of the dwelling where

necessary)

Heating

Coal bunker – replacement or repositioning

Heating

Thermostat or heating control relocation

Lights (external)

Lighting (external) – adequate provision (over and above required standard landlord

provision)

Lights (internal)

Additional lights in kitchen, bathroom and working areas for visually impaired people

Lights (internal)

Light switch replacement with ‘rocker’ or remote control switches

Steps

Deﬁnition of step edges for people with visual impairment (1st time provision and where

funding not already provided at scheme development stage)

Storage

Additional alternatives to provide ﬁxed storage units, worktops and sink units at

convenient levels

Taps

Lever taps provision to replace screw-down taps

Note 1: This is not an exhaustive list and where estimated work costs are likely to exceed £1000 the particular

organisations guidelines should be applied. There may be other works not included that can be provided

without Occupational Therapy recommendation by Social Landlords according to their individual procedures.

Note 2: By exception if there are any potential health and safety concerns a referral should be made to the

local Occupational Therapy service.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Section 2

Standard Technical

Speciﬁcations for Minor

Adaptations

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Standard Technical

Speciﬁcations for Minor

Adaptations

The following pictorial speciﬁcations provide the detail regarding the speciﬁc positioning of minor

adaptations such as grab rails and hand rails. These speciﬁcations will meet the needs of the

majority of service users and assist Therapists to determine if the proposed position will meet the

assessed need.

They also provide clarity for builders/contractors to ensure rails are ﬁtted in the required position as well as helping to

provide service users/tenants with a clear understanding of proposed works.

In circumstances where the speciﬁcations are not suitable for an individual’s needs a bespoke solution should be

clearly speciﬁed by the referring therapist on the minor adaptations recommendation form.

Speciﬁcations include:

• Option 1 Diagonal Rail at WC

• Option 2 Horizontal/Diagonal Rail at WC

• Option 3 Vertical Rail at WC

• Option 4 Folding Down Hinge Supported Rail at WC

• Option 5 Horizontal/Vertical Rail at Bath

• Option 6 Horizontal/Vertical Rail in Shower

• Option 7 Vertical Rail at Doorway

• Option 8 External Handrail

• Option 9 Internal Stair-rail

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Option 1 - Diagonal Rail at WC

Available with a 300mm or 450mm grab rail.

Option 2 -

Horizontal/Diagonal Rail at WC

Available with a 450mm grab rail.

A - Horizontal

B - at 15 degree angle

Standard WC

WC Height variable

Fixed

point

Fixed

point

Standard WC

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Option 3 - Vertical Rail at WC

Available with a 450mm grab rail.

Option 4 - Folding down Hinge Supported grab rail at WC

To be fitted at 150-200mm from side of toilet.

Note: This location may not always be possible due to obstructions (eg WHB

etc). OT to specify distance from toilet (as shown) if standard fitting not feasible.

C/L

Fixed

point

WC Height variable

Standard WC

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Standard Bath 1700 x 700mm

centre line of taps

Fixed

points

Option 5 - Horizontal/Vertical Rail at Bath

Available with a 450 or 600mm grabrail.

A - Horizontal or

B -Vertical

A&B option available.

Option 6 -

Horizontal/Vertical Rail in Shower (s)

Available with a 450/600mm option.

A - Horizontal (position to be specified by OT)

B - Vertical (lower centre fixing point of rail, 900mm above floor)

A&B option available.

Note: As there would be no standard shower design, OT to indicate

centre fixing points 450mm apart.

If centre points are not indicated rails cannot be fitted by direction

of the service user. OT to specify.

Shower

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Option 7 - Vertical Rail (s) at Doorway

Available with a 300mm grabrail.

A - LHS of door.

B - LHS reveal.

C - RHS reveal.

D - RHS of door.

Notes:

- A combination of rails can be specified (eg Option 7C&D or 7A&C).

- The lower centre fixing point for each rail, 1100mm above door threshold

unless otherwise stated. Where a second yale lock is fitted to the door at high

level it may not be possible to always fit Option 7C.

OT to indicate preferred centre points 300mm apart, this must not restrict

access to open lock.

If options are not specified or preferred locations indicated, rails cannot be fitted

by direction of the service user. OT to specify.

Where a grab rail or rails are fitted on door reveals, consider impact on door

opening widths.

Fixed

point

A D

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Option 8 - External Handrails

Metal rail with cylindrical grip, fitted 900 - 1000mm above

the ground/pitch line of existing steps. Rail to extend 300mm

beyond the face of the bottom step, where technically feasible.

Rails can also be mounted on the wall along side step

arrangement.

A - LHS ascending Wall to Ground

B - RHS ascending Wall to Ground

C - LHS ascending Wall mounted

D - RHS ascending Wall mounted

If not possible to fit wall to ground rail a ground to ground rail

could be fitted if feasible.

E - LHS ascending Ground to Ground

F - RHS ascending Ground to Ground

WALL TO GROUND

GROUND TO GROUND

WALL MOUNTED

Note: Handrails to extend 300mm past the last step.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

pitch line

Option 9

Internal Stair rails

Wooden rail with cylindrical grip, fitted similar height to existing handrail.

To continue on landings 300mm on the horizontal line, where technically feasible.

Handrail to be of circular profile or

approved non-circular with rounded edges.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Section 3

Communication Formats

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Communication Formats

Interagency information ﬂows are regulated by the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR).

Governance arrangements regarding transfer of information are set out in the data sharing

agreements which have been jointly developed and agreed by HSC Trusts and Housing Providers.

An agreed format for Occupational Therapy communications with Housing Providers has been designed to ensure a

consistency of approach across the region.

Communication formats include:

• Minor Adaptation Recommendations

• Major Adaptation Recommendations

• Occupational Therapy Response to Plans

• Occupational Therapy Final Inspection

• Occupational Therapy Housing Needs Report

These are to be used by Occupational Therapists in all HSC Trust areas and completed in major and minor adaptation

schemes regardless of tenure.

Other formats of recommendation/communication will not be accepted by the relevant Housing Providers.

Information requirements in the recommendation forms are proportionate to the complexity and cost of the works

recommended. Consequently, two forms have been provided – one for minor adaptations and the other for major

adaptations.

These forms do not include, conﬁdential medical information or details of the clinical rationale which

have been duly considered as part of the governance processes within Occupational Therapy. In certain

circumstances they may include functional terms such as ambulant disabled, independent or assisted

wheelchair user to guide appropriate use of housing design standards.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Explanatory Notes

The Minor and Major Recommendation forms have been developed so that the level of information supplied is

reﬂective of the complexity of the recommendation.

Examples of the types of work the Minor Adaptation recommendation form should be used for include but are not

exclusive to:

• Grab rails

• Stair rails

• Internal and external handrails

• Ramps, graduated steps

• Shower to replace bath

• Over bath shower

Examples of the types of work the Major Adaptation recommendation form should be used for include but are not

exclusive to:

• Home-lifts, including stair lifts, through ﬂoor lifts, and step lifts

• Ground ﬂoor extensions

• Major structural alterations

N.B. Mandatory information varies between major and minor adaptations. Sections are to be completed

as relevant to the adaptations recommended. Please refer to notes below against each section for further

guidance.

Please note, the forms shown within the PDF version of this document do not display all options from the

drop-down menus that are available in the electronic versions used by clinicians.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Completion of Minor Adaptations Recommendations Form

SECTION 1 SERVICE USER DETAILS [MANDATORY - this section to be completed in all cases]

Insert Owner/Tenant name (may be different to service user).

Insert name of person (s) for whom the adaptation is recommended and insert their date of birth.

Insert address of the property where the proposed adaptation is to be carried out. NB:

Insert contact tel. no. and/or any notiﬁed access arrangements. Include mobile number if available.

Tick relevant tenure. If Housing Association specify name of Association.

SECTION 2 ADAPTATION RECOMMENDATIONS TO BE COMPLETED IN ALL CASES

Indicate the adaptation required in the appropriate options box and tick if a speciﬁcation is attached.

Use the comments section to provide additional detail as required. If the adaptation is bespoke please provide clear

speciﬁcations.

SECTION 3 SERVICE USER QUALIFICATION CERTIFICATIONS

3a To be completed in ALL cases. All statements should be considered and only relevant statements

should be ticked.

Complete this section ONLY where, Level Access Shower or a likely re-arrangement of existing

bathing provision is recommended.

SECTION 4 DATA PROTECTION DECLARATION

Discussion with service user or appointed person of data use must be conﬁrmed by ticking box

Section 5 RECOMMENDATION ENDORSEMENT

To be completed in all cases. The assessing Occupational Therapist should sign to verify that the

recommendation endorsements have been met and that the contents of the form are appropriate

and correct to the best of their knowledge.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Completion of Major Adaptations Recommendations Form

SECTION 1 SERVICE USER DETAILS [MANDATORY - this section to be completed in all cases]

Insert Owners/Tenant name (may be different to service user).

Insert name of person (s) for whom the adaptation is recommended and insert their date of birth.

Insert address of the property where the proposed adaptation is to be carried out. NB: If person is

not registered tenant at this address please insert an explanation in Section 2.

Insert contact tel. no. and/or any notiﬁed access arrangements. Include mobile number if available.

Tick relevant tenure. If Housing Association specify name of Association.

SECTION 2 ADAPTATION RECOMMENDATIONS TO BE COMPLETED IN ALL CASES

Tick appropriate box to indicate if the recommendation follows the Design Matrix or is a Bespoke

Scheme.

Design Matrix Option

Select recommendations from drop down menu and attach speciﬁcations where appropriate.

Please use comments box for any necessary information.

Bespoke Option

Where the adaptation recommended is NOT covered by the Design Matrix insert recommendation

and speciﬁcations here. The Occupational Therapist should indicate the activity space

requirements and information to support adaptation outside these standards, e.g.:

Bedrooms:

• Speciﬁc transfer space if exceptional.

• Storage for specialised equipment.

• Number/type of beds – bed usage

Kitchens:

• Circulation space

• Work surface heights

• Design features to accommodate units and white goods

Equipment:

• Accommodation of “Exceptional” equipment where this impacts on speciﬁc room dimensions.

Toilet/Shower rooms:

• Space for larger than average showering equipment.

• Specialised ﬁxture/ﬁttings including wash/dry WC’s.

With both options tick the relevant standard speciﬁcations and ensure it is attached to the

completed recommendations. These must be amended to reﬂect any service user speciﬁc

requirements required.

This is not an exhaustive list and due consideration must be given to individual circumstances

where there is a clearly identiﬁed clinical need.

Amendments

Where an amendment is needed, to change or add to the original recommendation, the original

recommendation should be referenced.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

SECTION 3 HOUSEHOLD/BACKGROUND INFORMATION

ONLY complete Section 3 where household and property information is relevant to the adaptation recommended.

Complete the relevant property details.

N.B. The Housing provider/NIHE Grants Ofﬁce is responsible for veriﬁcation of property

information provided.

Complete household information as provided by the Householder/Client. The Occupational

Therapist is not responsible for the accuracy of information inserted in this section. Continue on

additional sheet if required.

N.B. The Housing Provider/NIHE Grants Ofﬁce is responsible for veriﬁcation of household details

Insert any relevant additional information that may assist in the provision of the adaptation.

i.e. caring arrangements/living arrangements/property information/environmental conditions etc.

SECTION 4 SERVICE USER QUALIFICATION CERTIFICATIONS

4a to be completed in ALL cases – 4b & 4c are only to be completed where relevant to adaptations recommended.

To be completed in ALL cases. All statements should be considered and only relevant statements

should be ticked.

Complete this section ONLY where a W/C, Level Access Shower or a likely re- arrangement of

existing bathing provision is recommended.

Complete this section ONLY where a substantive alteration or extension to provide additional

bedroom and/or shower room or other living space is recommended.

SECTION 5 DATA PROTECTION DECLARATION

Discussion with service user or appointed person of data use must be conﬁrmed by ticking box

SECTION 6 RECOMMENDATION ENDORSEMENT

6a to be completed in ALL cases; 6b where deemed necessary by Trust.

The assessing Occupational Therapist should sign to verify that the recommendation

endorsements have been met and that the contents of the form are appropriate and correct to the

best of their knowledge.

The authorised ofﬁcer for the Trust must endorse the major recommendation and service user

qualiﬁcation according to Trust procedures and requirements.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY RECOMMENDATIONS

FOR PROPOSED HOUSING ADAPTATIONS

[In accordance with the Chronically Sick & Disabled Persons (NI) Act 1978]

MINOR ADAPTATION RECOMMENDATIONS

MANDATORY sections are shown with BLACK background headers & numbers and must be completed in

all cases.

OPTIONAL sections are shown with GREY background headers & numbers and must be completed where

appropriate

1 SERVICE USER DETAILS [MANDATORY - this section to be completed in all cases]

Owner’s/Tenant’s Name

Person(s) for whom

adaptation is recommended

Date of Birth

Address of Property

Contact Tel.

No/

Access

arrangements

Private Rented Owner-Occupier NIHE Housing Ass. Specify:

2 ADAPTATION RECOMMENDATIONS

Please carry out the following adaptations as per minor technical speciﬁcations:

Grab Rails at WC:

Grab Rails at Bath:

Grab Rails at Front Entrance:

Grab Rails at Back Entrance:

External Rails at Front Entrance:

External Rails at Back Entrance:

Internal Stair Rails:

Shower in Existing Bathroom:

Shower over Bath:

Ramp:

Graduated Steps:

Door Release Intercom:

Lever Taps

Wall-mounted Shower Seat

Height

Comments:

Speciﬁcations Attached

Doors Steps Level Approach/

Ramp

Shower Shower to Replace Bath

Over-bath Shower

Other:

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

3 SERVICE USER QUALIFICATION CERTIFICATIONS

(tick all relevant statements in all appropriate sections in Part 3)

NOTE. Best value design solutions within the footprint of the existing structure will be considered where

technically feasible unless speciﬁcally stated otherwise.

3a [MANDATORY - this section to be completed in all cases; tick all relevant statements in all

appropriate sections)

Consensus has been sought with service

user, care providers, other members of

household

Primary purpose is to increase

or maintain functional independence

of service user with permanent and

substantial disabilities

Adaptations essential to

service user because of their

disabilities/condition

Provision will improve and/or alleviate

management problems experienced by carer

Proposals take account of

service users’ current and long term

needs

This is service user’s

only or main residence

3b Bathing Adaptations (complete where relevant)

Provision for wheelchair access as service

user is likely to become or already is a

wheelchair user or has limited functional

range of movement

Making space for shower provision

in existing bathroom has been

considered and removal of bath is

unavoidable.

Life time home facilities

for future shower provision

have been considered and

cannot be utilised.

Reason:

4 DATA PROTECTION DECLARATION

The service user or appointed person has given consent for the processing of this recommendation and any

necessary personal information being shared with the appropriate Housing Provider and any appropriate/relevant

personnel in connection with adaptation request.

5 RECOMMENDATION ENDORSEMENT

•

I conﬁrm that the above qualiﬁers have been given consideration & can be demonstrated as being met.

• I conﬁrm that I am an Occupational Therapist authorised by the Health & Social Care Trust to provide

recommendations for adaptations in accordance with the Health and Personal Social Service (Northern Ireland)

Order 1972.

• I conﬁrm that the named client is registered or eligible for registration under Section 1 of the Chronically Sick &

Disabled Persons (NI) Act 1978.

• I conﬁrm that the recommended adaptations are considered necessary and appropriate in securing the ‘greater

safety, comfort or convenience’ of the above named in their home environment [Ref Section 2 (e) CSDP (NI)

Act].

Signed:

Date:

Email:

Occupational Therapist

Tel. No:

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY RECOMMENDATIONS

FOR PROPOSED HOUSING ADAPTATIONS

[In accordance with the Chronically Sick & Disabled Persons (NI) Act 1978]

MAJOR ADAPTATION RECOMMENDATIONS

MANDATORY sections are shown with BLACK background headers & numbers and must be completed in

all cases.

OPTIONAL sections are shown with GREY background headers & numbers and must be completed where

appropriate

1 SERVICE USER DETAILS [MANDATORY - this section to be completed in all cases]

Owner’s/Tenant’s Name

Person(s) for whom adaptation is

recommended

Date of Birth

Address of

Property

Contact Tel. No/

Access

arrangements

Private Rented Owner/

Occupier

NIHE Housing Ass.

Specify:

2 ADAPTATION RECOMMENDATIONS

Provide details below of adaptations required supported by speciﬁcations as necessary.

[MANDATORY - this section to be completed in all cases]

Design Matrix

Bespoke

Please carry out the following adaptations as per design template:

WC/Shower Room

Bedroom

Shower in Exisiting Bathroom

Level Approach/Ramp: (Specifcation attached)

Through Floor Lift: (Speciﬁcation attached)

Door Widening: (Speciﬁcation attached)

Stairlift: (Speciﬁcation attached)

Location

Comments:

Bespoke:

Speciﬁcations Attached

Doors

Steps Level Approach

/Ramp

Shower

Car

Hardstanding

Other

Through Floor Lift

Stair lift Supervised

Enclosed Area

Wash/Dry WC

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

3 HOUSEHOLD / BACKGROUND INFORMATION

(if a relevant factor within option recommended)

3a PROPERTY INFORMATION

(tick all relevant boxes)

Property Form Ground Floor Facilities First Floor & Above

Detached Reception No. 0 Bedrooms No 0

End Terrace Kitchen Bathroom

Mid Terrace Dining Room Stair Lift

Semi-detached Bathrooms Through Floor Lift

Property Type

Bedrooms No. 0 Ensuite Facilities

Bungalow Integrated Garage Available Storage

Flat Available Storage Other facilities

Cottage WC Compartment

House Other Facilities

Maisonette

Split Level

3b Occupants/Family Information (relationship to householder should be speciﬁed where requested)

Lives Alone (if ticked yes go to 3c)

Persons ordinarily resident in property

Houselholder Partner

Other

Specify: Gender Age

Other

Specify: Gender Age

Other

Specify: Gender Age

Other

Specify: Gender Age

Other

Specify: Gender Age

3c Other relevant Information

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

4 SERVICE USER QUALIFICATION CERTIFICATIONS

NOTE. Best value design solutions within the footprint of the existing structure will be considered where technically

feasible unless speciﬁcally stated otherwise. (tick all relevant statements in all appropriate sections in Part 4).

4a [MANDATORY - THIS SECTION TO BE COMPLETED IN ALL CASES; TICK ALL

RELEVANT STATEMENTS IN ALL APPROPRIATE SECTIONS)

Consensus

has been sought

with service user,

care providers,

other members of

household.

Primary purpose is to increase

or maintain functional independence

of service user with permanent and

substantial disabilities.

Adaptations essential to service user because

of their disabilities / condition.

Provision will

improve and/or

alleviate management

problems

experienced by carer.

Proposals take account of service

user’ current and long term needs.

This is service user’s only or main residence.

4B WC / BATHING WC / BATHING ADAPTATIONS

Provision for

wheelchair access as

service user is likely

to become or already

is a wheelchair

user or has limited

functional range of

movement

Making space for shower provision

in existing bathroom has been

considered and removal of bath is

unavoidable.

Lifetime home facilities for future shower

provision have been considered and cannot be

utilised.

Reason:

No speciﬁc location for the facility has been identiﬁed. Service User’s functional ability to reach the

existing WC as and when required is severely

restricted due to the nature of their disability/

condition.

4C GENERAL ALTERATIONS OR EXTENSIONS TO LIVING SPACE

The existing

bedroom/ bathroom

used by service user

is not of sufﬁcient

size:

For wheelchair

use

o facilitate other

essential

equipment.

[Detail equipment &

sizes at section 2b)

It is not appropriate to provide vertical

lift access to the existing bedrooms /

bathroom

Reason:

Risk to service user

Risk to other occupant

Not technically feasible

Other:

It is not appropriate to provide stair lift access to

the existing bedrooms / bathroom.

Reason:

Risk to service user

Risk to other occupant

Not technically feasible

Other:

Due to the

multiple disability

and management

problems there is

a need to provide

separate sleeping

accommodation

within property

Service User has extreme difﬁculty

in negotiating stairs to reach existing

bedrooms/ bathroom and prognosis

indicates there will be a deterioration of

function in the future.

A reception room/ bedroom within property

cannot reasonably be expected to be utilised

due to the size and/or make up of the existing

household.

One additional bed space provision is required to assist family member in overnight management of severely

disabled service user.

Lifetime home space for future shower provision has been considered and cannot be utilised Reason:

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

5 DATA PROTECTION DECLARATION

The service user or appointed person has given consent for the processing of this recommendation and any

necessary personal information being shared with appropriate Housing Providers and any appropriate/relevant

personnel in connection with this request.

6 RECOMMENDATION ENDORSEMENT

• I conﬁrm that the above qualiﬁers have been given consideration & can be demonstrated as being met.

• I conﬁrm that I am an Occupational Therapist authorised by the Health & Social Care Trust to provide

recommendations for adaptations in accordance with the Health and Personal Social Service (Northern Ireland)

Order 1972.

• I conﬁrm that the named client is registered or eligible for registration under Section 1 of the Chronically Sick &

Disabled Persons (NI) Act 1978.

• I conﬁrm that the recommended adaptations are considered necessary and appropriate in securing the ‘greater

safety, comfort or convenience’ of the above named in their home environment [Ref Section 2 (e) CSDP (NI)

Act].

Signed: Date:

Email:

Occupational Therapist

Tel. No:

Signed:

Trust Authorised Signatory for the

Chief Executive

Print Name

Date:

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

Major Adaptation Provision

Occupational Therapy Response to Plans

Date:

Response to:

Address:

Postcode:

Dear Sir/Madam,

Name:

Address:

Ref No: (Where applicable)

Thank you for plans relating to the above named service user’s adaptation,

Received on: (insert date)

Please note the following:

1. The plans are satisfactory and will address the service user’s needs as recommended.

2. Generally the plans are satisfactory; however, the minor amendments listed below would need to be considered.

It is/is not necessary to forward an amended plan for further comment/approval.

3. The plans are not satisfactory and will not address the service user’s needs as recommended. I have highlighted

the areas of concern below and would require an amended plan for further comment/approval.

Should you need to discuss please do not hesitate to contact me

Comments:

Yours faithfully

Occupational Therapist

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

Major Adaptation Provision

Occupational Therapy Final Inspection

Date:

Response to:

Address:

Postcode:

Dear Sir/Madam,

Re: Occupational Therapist Final Inspection Visit

Name:

Address:

Ref No: (Where applicable)

I have carried out an Occupational Therapy ﬁnal inspection visit on (insert date) at the above property

following completion of the adaptation works and conﬁrm that:

1. The work has been completed satisfactorily and in accordance with the Occupational Therapists

recommendations.

2. The work is generally satisfactorily; however the minor changes listed below are necessary in order to

comply fully with the recommendations.

3. The work is not satisfactory and requires the changes listed below in order to fully comply with the

recommendations. A further inspection will be required.

4. The work is not satisfactory and does not comply with the Occupational Therapists recommendations

(see comments below). A follow up joint visit is necessary to address the issues.

Comments:

Yours faithfully

Occupational Therapist

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Completion of Housing Needs Report

The Housing Needs Report is designed to inform the housing application/transfer process through the Housing

Selection Scheme administered by the NIHE.

The Occupational Therapy service will provide a Housing Needs report where a service user has an identiﬁed

assessed functional need and the existing property cannot be adapted to meet those needs or the property can be

adapted and the service user has agreed to a housing transfer.

Prior to completion the service user must have submitted a housing application/transfer to the NIHE. The report will

be submitted to the Housing Support ofﬁcer who will use the information to help identify the most appropriate

housing solution available.

Range of Potential Housing Solution may include:

• Move/transfer to other forms of accessible social housing

• Move/transfer to existing social housing that would facilitate the recommended adaptations

• Transfer to ‘New-build’ property

• Supported Housing

• Special Acquisition

The Housing Needs Report will not be completed to support social or overcrowding needs.

Occupational Therapy considerations

The Occupational Therapist will consider the following factors, prior to completion:

• Can the existing home be adapted to meet the needs? – option appraisal

• Service user perspective/reasons for requesting to be re-housed

• Multiple functional needs within the household

• Facilities required needs within the household

• Reference to speciﬁc property types, e.g. bungalow, will not be recommended

Approval and Communication Process

The report must be completed by an Occupational Therapist, competent in the area of major housing adaptations.

Once the report is agreed and counter-signed by the Trust authorised signatory, the report will be forwarded to the

named Housing Support ofﬁcer within the NIHE.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Completion of Housing Needs Report

Section 1 SERVICE USER DETAILS (MANDATORY - THIS SECTION TO BE COMPLETED IN ALL CASES)

Owner /Tenant name (may be different to service user).

Name of person(s) for whom the housing solution is recommended and insert their date of birth.

Current Address and contact tel. no. and/or any notiﬁed access arrangements.

Include mobile number if available

Tick relevant tenure. If Housing Association specify name of Association.

SECTION 2 OCCUPANTS/FAMILY INFORMATION

Complete household information as provided by the Householder/Service User. The Occupational

Therapist is not responsible for the accuracy of informaiton inserted in this section. Continue on

additional sheet if require.

N.B. The Social Landlord/NIHE is responsible for veriﬁcation of household details

Provide any relevant Service User and Family information

SECTION 3 REASON FOR REHOUSING

Tick relevant box

SECTION 4 OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY RECOMMENDATION

Key Housing facilities

Complete all boxes with as much detail as possible based on assessed need.

Additional Information

Include any relevant information that is pertinent to the application.

SECTION 5 INTER-AGENCY WORKING

Statement on communication between Housing Providers and Occupational Therapists

SECTION 6 SERVICE USER QUALIFICATION CERTIFICATIONS

6a -6c to be completed in ALL cases – 6d only to be completed where relevant.

To be completed in ALL cases. All statements should be considered and only relevant statements

should be ticked.

To be completed in ALL cases. All statements should be considered and only relevant statements

should be ticked.

To be completed in ALL cases. All statements should be considered and only relevant statements

should be ticked.

To be completed when relevant

SECTION 7 DATA PROTECTION DECLARATION

Discussion with service user or appointed person of data use must be conﬁrmed by ticking box

SECTION 8 RECOMMENDATION ENDORSEMENT

8a to be completed in ALL cases; 8b where deemed necessary by Trust.

The assessing Occupational Therapist should sign to verify that the recommendation endorsements

have been met and that the contents of the form are appropriate and correct to the best of their

knowledge.

The authorised ofﬁcer for the Trust must endorse the major recommendation and service user

qualiﬁcation according to Trust procedures and requirements.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

Community Occupational Therapy

Housing Needs Report

(In accordance with Chronically Sick & Disabled Persons (NI) Act 1978)

Section 1 SERVICE USER (MANDATORY - this section to be completed in all cases)

Owner’s/Tenant’s Name

Person for whom

accessible housing solution

is required

Date of Birth:

Current Address:

Postcode:

Contact Tel. No/

access arrangements

Current Property Tenure:

Please select

Housing Ass. (Specify)

Other e.g. Residential Care, Hostel, Temporary

Section 2 OCCUPANTS/FAMILY INFORMATION

Lives alone (if ticked go to section 3)

Persons ordinarily resident in the property

Householder Partner

Name

Gender

Other

Age

Do other household members above require accessible housing features?

YES/NO

If yes please provide details

Section 2a OTHER RELEVANT SERVICE USER AND FAMILY INFORMATION

Private Rented Owner-occupier NIHE

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Section 3 REASON FOR RE-HOUSING

Existing home can be adapted, however service-user chooses not to consider

Existing home cannot be adapted to facilitate service-user needs

Other: (including service-user perspective)

Section 4 OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY RECOMMENDATION:

Level 1: Ambulant User

Level 2: Independent Wheelchair User

Level 3: Assisted Wheelchair User

All facilities should be situated on the one level:

A two-storey property would be acceptable (suitable for homelift)

KEY HOUSING FACILITIES REQUIRED BASED ON ASSESSED NEED:

Access –

External and Internal e.g. corridors,

doors width etc.

Door release/intercom system

Level/Ramped access External steps

Car Hardstanding Other:

Bedroom

(service user)

Design Matrix:

Bespoke Please Specify:

Bathroom/WC

Design Matrix:

Additional downstairs WC:

Bespoke Please Specify:

Kitchen/Dining area

Deﬁne Kitchen users and requirements

Stairs/access to upper level

Additional Stair-rail: Stairlift: Through Floor Lift:

Essential additional storage

Supervised enclosed area

Other:

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Please insert any additional information that may be relevant e.g. Sensory/Cognitive considerations

(This may require additional information from Sensory Support Team)

Section 5 INTERAGENCY WORKING

Should accommodation be identiﬁed which may meet the above recommendation, please liaise with the

Community Occupational Therapist to conﬁrm suitability, before allocating.

Section 6 SERVICE USER QUALIFICATION CERTIFICATIONS

Consensus has been sought with service users, care providers and other members of the household

Primary purpose of housing solution is to increase or maintain functional independence of service

user with permanent, substantial and long term disabilities.

Proposals take account at service users current and long term need.

Provision will improve and/or alleviate management problems experienced by carer

Section 7 DATA PROTECTION DECLARATION

The service user or appointed person has given consent for the processing of this recommendation and any

necessary personal information being shared with appropriate Housing Providers and any appropriate/ relevant

personnel in connection with this housing request.

Section 8 RECOMMENDATION ENDORSEMENT

• I conﬁrm that the above qualiﬁers have been given consideration and can be demonstrated as being met.

• I conﬁrm that I am an Occupational Therapist authorised by the Health & Social Care Trust to provide

recommendations for adaptations in accordance with the Health & Personal Social Services (Northern Ireland)

Order 1972.

• I conﬁrm that the named service user is registered or eligible for registration under Section 1 of the Chronically

Sick & Disabled Persons (NI) Act 1978.

• I conﬁrm that the recommended adaptations are considered necesary and appropriate in securing the greater

safety, comfort or convenience’ of the above named in their home environment [Ref Section 2(e) CSDP (NI) Act].

8a Signed:

Occupational Therapist

Date:

Click here to enter a date.

Email:

Tel. No.

8b Signed:

Trust Authorised Signatory for the

Chief Executive

Print Name

Date:

Click here to enter a date.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Section 4

Design Principles

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Design Principles

In establishing the agreed design proposal those involved should seek to apply the principles

of inclusive design in order to meet the requirements of a wide range of people with disabilities

including those with but not exclusive to:

• Mobility impairment including wheelchair users

• Manual dexterity impairments

• Cognitive impairment

• Complex behaviours

• Sensory impairment – visual/auditory

General design considerations

• Positioning of doorways to all rooms to ensure circulation space is maximised. The provision of sliding/pocket/

cassette doors may be beneﬁcial where space is restricted.

• Ensure the provision of adequate energy efﬁcient lighting.

• Optimisation of natural light to be considered where possible.

• Ensure the provision of adequate heating and ventilation.

• Consider colour/tonal contrasting of rails, walls, controls, ﬂooring etc. for visual impairment.

• Ensure radiators do not impinge on activity space.

• Ensure bedrooms include adequate double sockets appropriately located and positioned in compliance with

Building regulations (double/twin room – 4 double sockets, single room – 3 double sockets).

• Ensure unobstructed access to windows/curtains and radiators.

• Allow for clear unobstructed circulation space/turning circle of (as per section 5):

• 1200mm – Level 1

• 1500mm – Level 2

• 1800mm – Level 3

• Should the design require the provision of an overhead tracking hoist the Occupational Therapist should highlight

this in their recommendation. Consultation will be necessary with approved installers to ensure ceiling joists/walls/

ﬂoors are capable of adequate load bearing.

• Controls/switches/sockets should be placed with their centre line at a height between 700mm and 1000mm from

ﬂoor level with light switches at 1000mm.

• Ensure that sockets are not ﬁtted within 700mm of an internal room angle (corner of the room).

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

GENERAL SHOWER ROOM DESIGN SYMBOLS

Sink Basin

Drop down grab rail

Radiator

Pull cord or standard light switch

Standard WC

Wash Dry WC

Grab Rail

Floor former level shower tray

size as noted

1500 or 1800mm turning circle.

Door leaf

size & swing as noted

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Bathroom Design Considerations

• Bathroom layout to be designed to incorporate ease of access and use of the ﬁttings.

• Walls in bathrooms and toilets to be structurally capable of taking grab rails. Doors to bathrooms and W.C. to be

outward opening, where feasible, and ﬁtted with locks that can be opened from the outside.

• Provide W.C. at 450mm-500mm to centre line (c/l) from an adjacent wall unless alterative position requested by

Occupational Therapist to accommodate method of transfer/specialist equipment.

• W.C. to be positioned opposite doorway where feasible unless alternative position requested by Occupational

Therapist.

• Showers to be level access shower tray/ﬂoor former (as per Occupational Therapist speciﬁcation) and to be ﬁtted

with thermostatic controls.

• Shower areas should not, where possible, be used as an approach route to W.C./wash-hand basin.

• W.C. position to allow for unobstructed frontal, oblique or lateral transfer.

• Flush control located away from adjacent wall on transfer side.

• The wash-hand basin can be located on either the adjacent wall or adjacent to the cistern. The basin should not

project into this space by more than 200mm.

• The wash-hand basin should have a clear frontal approach zone, 700mm wide, extending 1100mm from any

obstruction under the basin such as pedestal, trap duct or furniture.

• Semi-pedestal or non-pedestal WHB recommended.

• A basin size of 550mmx525mm is preferred.

• Lever Taps preferred.

• Wash-hand basin should have a rim at 770mm to 850mm above ﬁnished ﬂoor level and a minimum 600mm

access zone below the basin.

• Turning circles may overlap level access showering areas where the tray/ﬂooring has a gently sloping gradient (no

greater than 1:40).

• Exact location and size of grab rails to be speciﬁc on the recommendation form or by exception agreed with the

Occupational Therapist.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

GENERAL BEDROOM DESIGN SYMBOLS

1500 x 2000mm Double Bed

900 x 2000mm Single Bed

1000 x 2300mm Hospital Bed

450 x 1350mm Dressing Table

(Double Bedroom)

450 x 1050mm Single Dressing

Table/desk (Single Bedroom)

Radiator

1500 or 1800mm turning circle.

Door leaf

size & swing as noted

600 x 600mm Single Wardrobe

600 x 1200mm Double Wardrobe

400 x 400mm Bedside Cabinet

1050 x 450mm Chest of Drawers

(Double Bedroom)

750 x 450mm Chest of Drawers/desk

(Single Bedroom)

Fixed tracking system.

Double Socket

Light Switch

Telephone Point

TV Aerial Point

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Bedroom Design Considerations

• Provide 1350mm activity space to front of all wardrobes and drawers.

• Provide 1000mm activity space to front of bedroom furniture with knee space.

• Provide adequate circulation space at transfer side of bed. This will be determined by the level recommended.

(Level 1 - 1200mm, Level 2 - 1500mm, Level 3 - 1800mm)

• Provide 900mm carer space to non-transfer side of bed.

• Provide 800mm minimum clear space at base of bed for circulation. Layout positioning of furniture should allow

for enhanced clearance.

Minimum bedroom furniture requirements

For the purpose of the toolkit the following furniture requirements have been considered in the design.

Single bedroom

1 bed, 1 bedside cabinet, 1 single wardrobe, 1 single chest of drawers

Double bedroom

1 double bed, 2 bedside cabinets, 1 double wardrobe, 1 double chest of drawers

Twin Bedroom

2 single beds, 2 bedside cabinets, double wardrobes, 1 double chest of drawers

Storage

The design templates have allowed for the general storage needs as above including the storage of service users’

wheelchair within the bedroom space.

There is no deﬁnitive guidance for the provision of additional storage as it is considered bespoke in nature and

speciﬁc to individual assessed needs based on a number of factors such as:

• What needs to be stored – size and scale

• Occupancy of the property

• Available rooms and utilisation of available space

Where designated storage space is required a thorough assessment and authorisation process is recommended.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Section 5

Space Standards Matrix, Design

Templates and Complexity

Descriptors

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Space Standards, Design

Templates and Complexity

Descriptors

The following space standards matrix, design templates and complexity descriptors have been

developed to:

• Assist Occupational Therapists with their clinical reasoning and decision making regarding the space requirements

for the service user.

• Assist the service user in visualising proposed solutions at an early stage.

• Support the Housing Provider in the development of proposed plans.

It is important to note that the design templates are for illustration purposes and should be used as guidelines only.

However when used in conjunction with the Occupational Therapists professional judgement they should ensure

consistency of approach in determining a service users space requirements across tenure in order to deliver best

value design solutions across tenure.

The space standards matrix, design templates and complexity descriptors are categorised into three levels to reﬂect

the level of an individual’s function:

• Level 1 – ambulant user (1200mm circulation space which also factors in space for supervision or assistance).

• Level 2 – independent wheelchair user (1500mm circulation space). This level is the preferred space standard for

wheelchair users who have the ability to propel and manoeuvre their wheelchair, with or without assistance within

a 1500mm turning space.

• Level 3 – assisted wheelchair user (1800mm circulation space). This level is the recommended space standard for

assisted wheelchair users to facilitate their safe manoeuvre within the designated room.

Please note that the illustrations often show en-suite WC and shower facilities and are indicative only.

Please check carefully whether en-suite facilities have been recommended by the Occupational Therapist

prior to inclusion in any proposed design.

The Space Standards matrix (table 2) provides a summary of agreed space standards for the most frequently

requested major adaptations.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Table 3: Space Standards Matrix

ROOM LEVEL 1

DESIGN TEMPLATE 1

LEVEL 2

DESIGN TEMPLATE 2

LEVEL 3

DESIGN TEMPLATE 3

A WC

1500mm x 2000mm

(3m2)

1800mm x 2000mm

(3.60m2)

2000mm x 2200mm

(4.40m2)

B WC / Shower Room

(wet ﬂoor option)

1700mm x 1900mm

(3.23m2)

2300mm x 2200mm

(5.06m2)

2500mm x 2500mm

(6.25m2)

Bedroom

C Single Standard Bed

3000mm x 3600mm

(10.80m2)

3300mm x 3800mm

(12.54m2)

3600mm x 3800mm

(13.68m2)

D Single Hospital Bed

3100mm x 3900mm

(12.09m2)

3400mm x 3800mm

(12.92m2)

3700mm x 4100mm

(15.17m2)

E Double

3600mm x 3800mm

(13.68m2)

3900mm x 3900mm

(15.21m2)

4200mm x 3950mm

(16.59m2)

Twin Room

F 2 Single Beds

Standard

3900mm x 3800mm

(14.82m2)

4200mm x 3800mm

(15.96m2)

4500mm x 3800mm

(17.10m2)

G Hospital Beds

(1 standard bed & 1

hospital bed)

4000mm x 4100mm

(16.40m2)

4300mm x 4100mm

(17.63m2)

4600mm x 4100mm

(18.86m2)

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Level 1 – Ambulant User

Level 1 space standards are designed primarily to meet the needs of ambulant users. The following descriptors/

considerations provide some guidance for Therapists in determining if level 1 space standards will address the

assessed clinical and functional need of their service user and carer(s).

Complexity Descriptors/Functional Considerations

• Service user is able to mobilise with support of walking aid or requires supervision/assistance of one person to

mobilise.

• Service user’s condition is static and unlikely to signiﬁcantly deteriorate, in so far as is reasonable to predict.

• Service user requires supervision/assistance of one person to carry out personal care tasks.

• Service user requires supervision/assistance of one person to transfer on/off bed W.C. with/without equipment.

• Service user’s needs can be met with 1200mm clear unobstructed activity apace to side of bed to facilitate

mobility transfer and assistance/supervision if required.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

WC 1A

Ambulant User WC (with/without walking aid)

(3.00m )

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

WC/SHOWER 1B

Ambulant User - WC/Shower room

(3.23m )

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Ambulant User - Single Bedroom (Standard)

(10.80m )

SINGLE BEDROOM 1C

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Ambulant User - Single Bedroom (Hospital Bed)

(12.00m )

SINGLE BEDROOM 1D

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

DOUBLE BEDROOM 1E

Ambulant User - Double Bedroom

(13.68m )

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

TWIN BEDROOM 1F

Ambulant User - Twin Bedroom (Standard)

(14.82m )

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

TWIN BEDROOM 1G

Ambulant User - Twin Bedroom (Standard & Hospital Bed)

(16.40m )

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Level 2 – Independent Wheelchair User

Level 2 space standards are designed primarily to meet the needs of independent wheelchair users in either

manual or powered wheelchairs. The following descriptors/considerations provide some guidance for therapists in

determining if level 2 space standards will address the assessed clinical and functional need of their service user and

carer(s).

Complexity Descriptors/Functional Considerations

• Service user is a wheelchair user for both indoor/outdoor mobility or requires assistance of 1-2 people to mobilise.

• Service user’s condition is static and further signiﬁcant deterioration is not predicted which may necessitate more

complex wheelchair/postural management systems or manual handing requirements e.g. tilt in space.

• Service user can manoeuvre their wheelchair/shower chair, with or without assistance, within a turning circle of

1500mm.

• Clear unobstructed activity space of 1500mm is required to the side of the bed to facilitate safe transfer with/

without assistance of equipment and/or 1-2 carers.

• Service user requires a standard size wheelchair (e.g.17-18”/430-450mm seat width)

If enhanced space is required for a larger wheelchair, this will need to be determined on an individual basis

and processed as a bespoke solution.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

WC 2A

Independent Wheelchair User WC

(3.60m )

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

WC/SHOWER 2B

Independent Wheelchair User WC/Shower

(5.00m )

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SINGLE BEDROOM 2C

Independent Wheelchair User Single Bedroom (Standard)

(12.54m )

1300x800mm

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Independent Wheelchair User Single Bedroom

(Hospital Bed) (12.92m )

1300x800mm

SINGLE BEDROOM 2D

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SINGLE BEDROOM 2D

Independent Wheelchair User Single Bedroom

(Hospital Bed - alternative layout) (12.92m )

1300x800mm

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Independent Wheelchair User Double Bedroom

(15.21m )

1300x800mm

DOUBLE BEDROOM 2E

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Independent Wheelchair User Twin Bedroom

(Standard Beds) (15.96m )

1300x800mm

TWIN BEDROOM 2F

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Independent Wheelchair User Twin Bedroom

(Standard & Hospital Bed) (17.63m )

1300x800mm

TWIN BEDROOM 2G

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Level 3 – Assisted Wheelchair User

Level 3 space standards are designed primarily to meet the needs of assisted wheelchair users. The following

descriptors/considerations provide some guidance for Therapists in determining if level 3 space standards will

address the assessed clinical and functional need of their service user and carer(s).

Complexity Descriptors/Functional Considerations

• Services user is a wheelchair user for both indoor and outdoor mobility.

• Service user is unable to propel themselves and is dependent on a carer to assist.

• Service user and carer require an 1800mm turning circle to safely manoeuvre the wheelchair/shower chair.

• Service user requires assistance with transfers and may require hoisting to facilitate safe transfer.

• Clear unobstructed activity space of 1800mm is required to the side of the bed to facilitate safe transfer with/

without hoist. Unobstructed space of 2300mm may need to be considered for a mobile hoist user. Where this is

required the recommendation needs to be processed as a bespoke scheme.

• Service user requires a standard size wheelchair (e.g.17-18”/430-450mm seat width)

If enhanced space is required for a larger wheelchair, this will need to be determined on an individual basis

and processed as a bespoke solution.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

WC 3A

Assisted Wheelchair User WC

(4.40m )

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

WC/SHOWER 3B

Assisted Wheelchair User WC/Shower

(6.25m )

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SINGLE BEDROOM 3C

Assisted Wheelchair User Single Bedroom

(Standard) (13.68m )

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Assisted Wheelchair User Single

Bedroom (Hospital Bed) (15.17m )

SINGLE BEDROOM 3D

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

DOUBLE BEDROOM 3E

Assisted Wheelchair User Double

Bedroom (16.59m )

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

TWIN BEDROOM 3F

Assisted Wheelchair User Twin Bedroom (Standard)

(17.10m )

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

TWIN BEDROOM 3G

Assisted Wheelchair User Twin Bedroom

(Hospital and Standard Bed) (18.86m )

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Section 6

Speciﬁcation Templates

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Speciﬁcation Templates

A range of speciﬁcation templates for particular types of adaptations exist to support and enhance

the detail of Occupational Therapy recommendations. The speciﬁcations will inform designers

and builders regarding the technical details of prescribed adaptations and will accompany the

Occupational Therapy minor and major recommendation forms as required.

The speciﬁcations templates in the toolkit are for the following types of work.

• Car Hardstanding

• Level Approach/Ramp

• External Steps Including Handrails

• Doors/Door Widening

• Stairlift

• Through Floor Lift

• Wash/Dry Toilet

• Shower

• Shower to Replace Bath

• Over-bath Shower

• Outdoor Supervised Enclosed Area

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

Occupational Therapy Service

Car Hardstanding Speciﬁcation

Service User Details Occupational Therapist

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Contact Person (is different from above)

Date:

• Provision of level hardstand in close proximity to: Select option

Front Access Rear Access Side Access Extension Access

• Hardstand to measure 3600mm x 6000mm.

• Where a rear access vehicle with integral ramp is required please ensure a minimum clear space of 2935mm is

available to the back of the vehicle.

• Where a side entry vehicle with integral ramp is required please ensure a minimum of clear space of 2935mm is

available at the side of the vehicle

• Should the vehicle type determine additional space, please specify under speciﬁc instructions

• Pathway, minimum clear width of 1000mm to be provided from hard standing to access into property. Ensure

access to dwelling is level or ramped to appropriate gradient as per speciﬁcation.

• Slip resistant ﬁnish to be provided.

Any other speciﬁc instructions:

N.B. Speciﬁcations are for guidance only and may be subject to change depending on site conditions. If

work cannot be completed to this speciﬁcation, please consult with the Occupational Therapist and relevant

Housing Provider/NIHE grants ofﬁce before proceeding.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

Occupational Therapy Service

Level Approach/Ramp Speciﬁcation

Where technically feasible level approach to dwelling is to be provided.

Service User Details Occupational Therapist

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Contact Person

(is different from above)

Date:

LEVEL APPROACH

(Access to a dwelling/approach to ramp/steps)

Surface - Firm, even and slip resistant ﬁnish to be provided.

Width - 1000mm minimum unobstructed width.

- Gradient not exceeding 1:20.

- Cross fall not exceeding 1:40.

RAMP PROVISION

Where feasible ﬂight of the ramp should not exceed 10m or a rise in excess of 600mm between level platforms.

Preferred Location - Select Option

Front access Rear Access Side Access Extension Access To be agreed

Gradient: - Must be kept to a minimum. 1:20 recommended where site conditions allow.

If not feasible consult with Occupational Therapist to agree an acceptable alternative

gradient.

Width: - 1000mm minimum unobstructed width.

Platform/Landing: - Level platforms must be provided at the top and bottom of the ramp and at every change of

direction. 300mm-500mm clear space at leading edge is to be provided, where technically

feasible, for side approach (see diagram).

- Unobstructed length 1200mm minimum. Width of platform should be at least the width of

the ramp.

- If other please specify.

Pathway: - Pathway, minimum clear width of 1000mm to be provided from ramp to access into property.

Resting Platform: - 1:15 – 1:20 ramp - if ramp length exceeds 10m a resting platform is required.

- 1:12 – 1:14 ramp - if ramp length exceeds 5m a resting platform is required.

Minimum length of a resting platform is 1500mm.

Handrails: - Provided on each exposed side along full length of ramp and landings.

- Top edge 900-1000mm above the ramp surface.

- To extend horizontally 300m beyond the end of the ramp.

- The rails should be cylindrical, galvanised, attached 50-60mm from wall and not exceeding

40-50mm diameter and not more than 110mm projection into the surface width.

- Should terminate in a closed end and not project into a route of travel.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

Guarding: - In ﬁll panels may be required depending on height of overall rise. Designer/contractor to

determine.

Surface: - Slip resistant ﬁnish to be provided.

- Allow for drainage of surface water.

- Timber construction not acceptable.

Threshold - Provide level threshold to any doorway leading off ramp. Thresholds must be chamfered or

rounded in compliance with building regulations.(Technical booklet R)

Door - If door requires alteration, please refer to door speciﬁcation.

Any other speciﬁc instructions

N.B. Speciﬁcations/illustrations are for guidance only and may be subject to change depending on site

conditions. If work cannot be completed to this speciﬁcation, please consult with the Occupational Therapist

relevant Housing Provider/NIHE grants ofﬁce before proceeding.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

Occupational Therapy Service

External Steps including Handrails Speciﬁcation

Service User Details Occupational Therapist

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Contact Person

(is different from above)

Date:

Preferred Locations: Select option

Front Access Rear Access Side Access Extension Access

Speciﬁcation – Steps

• Level platform of not less than 900mm depth.

• The rise to be a maximum of: Select option:

75mm 100mm 150mm

(Maximum of 100mm recommended for walking aid users)

•

The going to be a minimum of: Select option:

350mm 600mm 650mm 900mm

Minimum unobstructed width 1000mm.

•

Steps should be uniform and threads slip resistant.

• Steps should not be open.

• Steps should have a proﬁle that reduces the risk of tripping i.e. ﬂush and vertical with no projections or overhangs.

• Visibility strips to be provided at edge of steps: Select option: No/Yes

Speciﬁcation – Handrails

• Fitted 900mm-1000mm above pitch line of ﬂight of steps and landing.

• Continuous along ﬂight and landing of steps and ﬁtted on both sides.

• Extend at least 300mm horizontally beyond the top and bottom step.

• The rails should be cylindrical/oval, galvanised, attached 50-60mm from wall and not exceeding 40-50mm

diameter and not more than

110mm

projection into surface width.

• Handrail should be continued around any open edge of the platform.

• Should terminate in a closed end and not project into a route of travel.

Any other speciﬁc instructions:

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

External Steps Including Handrails

N.B. Speciﬁcations/illustrations are for guidance only and may be subject to change depending on site

conditions. If work cannot be completed to this speciﬁcation, please consult with the Occupational Therapist

and relevant Housing Provider/NIHE grants ofﬁce before proceeding.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

Occupational Therapy Service

Doors/Door Widening Speciﬁcation

Service User Details Occupational Therapist

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Contact Person

(is different from above)

Date:

Location: Bathroom Living room Reception room Bedroom Access Kitchen

Other, please specify

clear opening width

door leaf

door stop

door swing

• Door set to allow minimum clear opening of: Select option.

775mm 800mm 825mm 850mm 900mm

• Doors should be hung with hinges adjacent to the corner of the room into which they open to maximise circulation

space within the room.

• A minimum of 300mm clear space at the leading edge (pull side) of the door and 200mm to the following edge

(push side) of the door should be considered where technically feasible.

• Consider the approach when determining the clear opening width required.

• By exception 1026mm wide internal door leaf can be provided , if requested by an O.T and space allows it.

• Doors should be positioned to allow maximum opening, against walls where possible.

• Thresholds for internal doors should be level at the junction of different ﬂooring materials, with door saddles avoided

• Thresholds for external doors should be level. Where a raised threshold is unavoidable this must not exceed a

maximum height of 15mm. External thresholds must be chamfered or rounded.

• Door handles should be lever type with spring return, of at least 19mm diameter, positioned at a preferred height

of 900mm above ﬂoor level (within 800mm – 1050mm range).

Bathroom doors:

Where feasible, bathroom doors should open outwards in order to maximise space, enable easy access in the event

of emergency and facilitate ease of opening/closing.

A sliding/pocket door may also be considered where space is limited.

Any other speciﬁc instructions:

N.B. Speciﬁcations/illustrations are for guidance only and may be subject to change depending on site

conditions. If works cannot be completed to this speciﬁcation, please consult with the Occupational Therapist

and relevant Housing Provider/NIHE grants ofﬁce before proceeding.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

Occupational Therapy Service

Stairlift Speciﬁcation

Service User Details Occupational Therapist

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Contact Person

(is different from above)

Date:

In determining what is standard provision the Occupational Therapists should refer to the Housing Providers

contracted features when prescribing.

Service user details:

Height: cm ft ins Weight: kg ( st lbs)

Measurement from back of hip to front of knee or tips of toes, whichever is greatest (see diagram) mm

(dimension B)

Stairlift Type: Select option

Straight Curved Split Perching

Seat swivel: Select option

Manual Powered

Seat height - footplate to seat: Select option

Standard Bespoke please specify – popliteal height mm

Lapbelt type: Select option

Standard Bespoke please specify type

Controls - Select option

Standard Bespoke please specify

Location: Right Left No preference

Footplate Link - Select option

Manual Powered Not required

Any other speciﬁc requirements (e.g. joint visit required etc.)

N.B.

Speciﬁcations are for guidance only and may be subject to change depending on site conditions.

If work cannot be completed to this speciﬁcation, please consult with the Occupational Therapist and

relevant Housing Provider/NIHE grants ofﬁce before proceeding.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

Occupational Therapy Service

Through Floor Lift Speciﬁcation

Service User Details Occupational Therapist

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Contact Person

(is different from above)

Date:

In determining what is standard provision the Occupational Therapists should refer to the Housing Providers

contracted features when prescribing.

Service User details:

Height: cm ft ins Weight: kg ( st lbs)

Seat type if required: Select options

No Seat required (Wheelchair User) Fold up Perch Seat with Arms

Seat height: cms Rails if required: Yes/No/Other:

Wheelchair Dimensions (where appropriate)

Overall length of occupied wheelchair mm

Overall width of occupied wheelchair mm

Combined weight of wheelchair and service user kg ( st lbs):

(Review with any change of wheelchair)

Wheelchair Usage (method of propulsion): Select option

Self-propelling Assisted Powered

Lift Door: Select option Manual (standard) Powered

In Lift Communication: Select option Landline Mobile Phone

Any other speciﬁc requirements:

N.B. Speciﬁcations are for guidance only and may be subject to change depending on site conditions.

If work cannot be completed to this speciﬁcation, please consult with the Occupational Therapist and

relevant Housing Provider/NIHE grants ofﬁce before proceeding.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

Occupational Therapy Service

Overhead Tracking Hoist Speciﬁcation

Service User Details Occupational Therapist

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Contact Person

(is different from above)

Date:

In determining what is standard provision the Occupational Therapist should refer to the Housing Providers

contracted features when prescribing.

Service User details:

Height: cm ft ins Weight: kg ( st lbs)

Safe working Load:

200kg 250kg 300kg 350kg

Location of Hoist:

Bedroom Full room Other:

Room Coverage:

Single Track Full room Inter-room

Additional Information/Comments

Lifting Height:

Standard To be discussed and agreed at feasibility study

Spreader Bar:

Standard 2 point 4 Point spreader bar Other

Slings:

Universal Number 0 Toileting Number 0

Showering Number 0 All Day Number 0

Size: (may be determined at feasibility study if not known)

Any other speciﬁc requirements:

Joint Visit Required

PLEASE ENSURE PLACEMENT OF DOCKING STATION DOES NOT PRESENT A RISK TO SERVICE USER OR

CARER.

N.B. Speciﬁcations are for guidance only and may be subject to change depending on site conditions.

If work cannot be completed to this speciﬁcation, please consult with the Occupational Therapist and

relevant Housing Provider/NIHE grants ofﬁce before proceeding.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

Occupational Therapy Service

Wash/Dry Toilet Speciﬁcation

Service User Details Occupational Therapist

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Contact Person

(is different from above)

Date:

• Overall height of wash/dry toilet:

• Floor to top of WC pan: Or Floor to top of WC seat:

• From mid-line of WC to side wall: 500mm Other:

• Occupational Therapist to identify appropriate toilet aids/rails if required.

• Type of douche required: Male

• Type of control required (all universal): Select option.

Elbow Pads Other

• Slip resistant ﬂooring. Refer to B.S. Standard

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS:

N.B. Speciﬁcations are for guidance only and may be subject to change depending on site conditions. If

work cannot be completed to this speciﬁcation, please consult with the Occupational Therapist and relevant

Housing Provider/NIHE grants ofﬁce before proceeding.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

Occupational Therapy Service

Shower Speciﬁcation

Service User Details Occupational Therapist

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Contact Person

(is different from above)

Date:

TYPE OF SHOWER (Select as appropriate):

1. Pre-formed Level Access Shower Base/Wet Floor Shower

This base can be set within a ﬂoor using a ﬂoor former and completely covered with slip resistant ﬂooring or tiles

to provide a step free and fully accessible showering area. A number of different size options are available.

A ﬂoor constructed option may also be acceptable incorporating shallow falls to the drainage outlet. (1:40 – 1:50

gradient recommended.) Drainage outlet to be positioned in corner.

A minimum internal showering area of mm x mm is recommended.

2. Level Access Tray

A number of level access shower tray products are available including level access shower bases suitable for bath

replacements.

A tray with minimum internal showering area of mm x mm is recommended.

The tray must be suitable for ambulant or wheeled shower chair users. must be no greater than 5mm

above ﬁnished ﬂoor level at point of entry with a rounded lip.

3. Step in Shower Trays

This option is generally considered in circumstances where it is not technically feasible to install a level access

tray. A maximum step of 85mm is recommended with a minimum internal showering area of

mm x mm is recommended.

Flooring

Wet room grade ﬂooring in line with manufacturer’s instructions to be provided to cover bathroom ﬂoor. Floor

covering should be ‘easy clean’ and form a watertight seal with the tray. A sheet covering ﬁnish should also be heat

sealed and skirted up walls in accordance with the manufacturers ﬁtting instructions.

SHOWERING SYSTEM

Shower unit to be thermostatically controlled and ﬁtted 900-1050mm

from ﬁnished ﬂoor level to base of controls.

Electric or mechanical shower type acceptable though where instantaneous access to hot water is required

consideration needs to be given to the provision of an electric shower.

Please note if particular shower type is essential.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

Position of Controls: Select option.

Long Wall Short Wall Other

Generally controls should be sited on the long wall of the shower at 90° to the shower seat to facilitate access for the

seated user.

Positioning on a short wall may be more suitable for assisted user to facilitate access to controls for carer. Sliding bar

to be centred on shower tray if controls positioned on this wall.

Type of Control (please Specify): Lever Dial Push Button (electric model only) Any

Shower Head

Should be detachable, adjustable and ﬁtted on a sliding bar.

Sliding Bar:

Positioned on same wall as control unit. Base of sliding bar to be ﬁtted 900-1000mm above ﬁnished ﬂoor level and to

be 1000mm in length. 400-500mm from wall (see diagram).

Shower Hose:

Provision of a ﬂexible and detachable hose: Select option. Length: 1500mm 2000mm

Grab Rails:

All rails to have a slip resistant ﬁnish and a diameter of 35mm average.

Colour contrast required: Yes / No

Length Horizontal: 300mm 450mm 600mm

Length Vertical: 300mm 450mm 600mm

See attached diagram for approximate position

By exception position to be determined by Occupational Therapist during construction

Shower Seat;

Shower seat to be provided by Occupational Therapy Department

Fixed folding shower seat required with supporting legs

The seat should accommodate a minimum weight of st/Kg

Fixing height N/A 430mm, 460mm, 480mm & 510mm

Select Option:

Other Please Specify

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

Screens/Enclosures/Curtains

A full height weighted shower curtain should be ﬁtted internally ensuing effective water containment

Fixed folding ½ height doors with curtain required

Ensure that shower doors open to allow a minimum of 900mm access ensuring effective water containment and

preferably are rise and fall 180 degree hinges.

Soap Dish: Should be recessed at an accessible height or a clip on dish supplied for rise/fall bar.

Tiling/Panels: Should extend to a minimum of the dimensions of the showering area.

Heating: Where the showering area is provided within an extension please ensure adequate heating is provided.

Ventilation: Please ensure provision of adequate ventilation.

Pipework: Exposed pipework must be insulated or boxed in.

Bathroom Doors: Where feasible bathroom doors should open outwards. A sliding/pocket door may also be

considered where space is limited, if feasible.

Wash-Hand Basin: Minimum size Wall Hung Semi Pedestal Full Pedestal

W.C. Standard Height W.C. pan (16”, 410mm) Yes/No If No please specify height.

Grab Rails: Yes/No or position to be deteremined by O.T during construction

Any other speciﬁc instructions

All ﬁxtures and ﬁttings must be ﬁtted in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.

N.B. Speciﬁcations/illustrations are for guidance only and may be subject to change depending on site

conditions. If work cannot be completed to this speciﬁcation, please consult with the Occupational Therapist

and relevant Housing Provider/NIHE grants ofﬁce before proceeding.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

Occupational Therapy Service

Shower to Replace Bath Speciﬁcation

Service User Details Occupational Therapist

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Contact Person

(is different from above)

Date:

TYPE OF SHOWER (Select as appropriate)

1. Pre-formed Level Access Shower Base/Wet Floor Shower:

This base can be set within a ﬂoor using a ﬂoor former and completely covered with slip resistant ﬂooring or tiles

to provide a step free and fully accessible showering area. A number of different size options are available.

A ﬂoor constructed option may also be acceptable incorporating shallow falls to the drainage outlet. (1.40-1.50

gradient recommended). Drainage outlet to be positioned in corner.

A minimum internal showering area of mm x mm is recommended.

2. Level Access Tray

A number of level access shower tray products are available including level access shower bases suitable for bath

replacements.

A tray with minimum internal showering area of mm x mm is recommended. The tray must be

suitable for ambulant or wheeled shower chair users. The threshold must be no greater than 5mm above ﬁnished

ﬂoor level at point of entry with a rounded lip.

3. Step in Shower Trays:

This option is generally considered in circumstances where it is not technically feasible to install a level access

tray. A max of 85mm is recommended with a minimum internal showering area of mm x mm is

recommended.

4. Preferred Location:

(For illustrative purposes only. Reference this speciﬁcation for the details).

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

Flooring:

Wet room grade ﬂooring in line with manufacturers’ instructions to be provided to cover the bathroom ﬂoor. Floor

covering should be ‘easy clean’ and form a watertight seal with the tray. A sheet covering ﬁnish should also be heat

sealed and skirted up walls around the showering area in accordance with the manufacturers ﬁtting instructions.

Showering System:

Shower unit to be thermostatically controlled and ﬁtted 1000-1200mm from ﬁnished ﬂoor level to base of controls.

Electric or mechanical shower type acceptable though where instantaneous access to hot water is required

consideration needs to be given to the provision of an electric shower.

Please note if particular shower type is essential:

Position of Controls: Long Wall Short Wall Other

Generally, controls should be sited on the long wall of the shower 90° to the shower seat to facilitate access for the

seated user. (See attached diagram.) Positioning on short wall may be more suitable for assisted user to facilitate

access to controls for carer.

Type of Controls:

Lever Dial Push Button (electric model only) Any

Shower Head:

Should be detachable, adjustable and ﬁtted on a sliding bar.

Sliding Bar:

Positioned on same wall as control unit. Base of sliding bar to be ﬁtted 900-1000mm above ﬁnished ﬂoor level and

to be 1000mm in length. 400-500mm from wall (See attached diagram)

Shower Hose:

Provision of a ﬂexible and detachable hose. Length: 1500mm 2000mm

Grab Rails: Select option

All rails to have a slip resistant ﬁnish and a diameter of 35mm average.

Colour contrast required Yes/No

Length Horizontal: 300mm 450mm 600mm

Length Vertical: 300mm 450mm 600mm

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

See attached diagram for approximate position,

By exception position to be determined by Occupational Therapist during construction

Shower Seat:

Shower seat to be provided by Occupational Therapy Department

Fixed folding shower seat required with supporting legs.

The seat should accommodate a minimum weight of st/kg.

Fixing height: 430mm 460mm 480mm 510mm

Other Please specify

Screens/Enclosures/Curtains:

A full height weighted shower curtain should be ﬁtted internally ensuring effective water containment.

Fixed folding ½ height doors with curtains required

Ensure that shower doors open to allow a minimum of 900mm access ensuring effective water containment and are

rise and fall 180 degree hinges.

If other door conﬁgurations are required please specify: other

Soap dish: Should be recessed at an accessible height or a clip on dish supplied for the rise/fall bar.

Tiling/Panels: Should extend to a minimum of the dimensions of the showering area.

Heating: Where the showering area is provided within an extension please ensure adequate heating is provided.

Ventilation: Please ensure provision of adequate ventilation.

Pipework: Exposed hot water pipes must be insulated or boxed in.

Bathroom Doors: Where feasible bathroom doors should open outwards. A sliding/pocket door may also be

considered where space is limited, if feasible.

Any other speciﬁc instructions

All ﬁxtures and ﬁttings must be ﬁtted in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.

N.B. Speciﬁcations/illustrations are for guidance only and may be subject to change depending on site

conditions. If work cannot be completed to this speciﬁcation, please consult with the Occupational Therapist

and relevant Housing Provider/NIHE grants ofﬁce before proceeding.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

Occupational Therapy Service

Over-Bath Shower Speciﬁcation

Service User Details Occupational Therapist

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Contact Person

(is different from above)

Date:

Position of Controls: Select option

Long Wall Short Wall Other

Type of Control (please specify): Select option

Lever Dial Push Button (electric model only) Any

Shower Head:

Should be detachable, adjustable and ﬁtted on a sliding bar.

Sliding Bar:

Fitted on the long wall adjacent to shower control. Lowest position of riser bar to be 800mm

above rim of the bath.

Shower Hose: Select option

Provision of a ﬂexible and detachable hose. Length 1500mm 2000mm

Grab Rails: Select option

All rails to have a slip resistant ﬁnish a diameter of 35mm average.

Colour contrast required: Yes/No

Length Horizontal: 300mm 450mm 600mm

Length Vertical: 300mm 450mm 600mm

By exception position to be determined by Occupational Therapist during construction

Screens/Enclosures/Curtains:

A full height weighted shower curtain should be ﬁtted to enclose entire bath ensuring effective water containment.

Please ensure curtain falls within the rim of the bath to contain water spray.

Soap Dish: Should be recessed at an accessible height or a clip on dish supplied for the rise/fall bar.

Tiling/Panels: Should extend to a minimum of the dimensions of the bathing area.

Heating: Please ensure adequate heating is provided.

Ventilation: Please ensure provision of adequate ventilation.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Pipework: Exposed hot water pipes must be insulated or boxed in.

Any other speciﬁc instructions

All ﬁxtures and ﬁttings must be ﬁtted in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.

N.B. Speciﬁcations are for guidance only and may be subject to change depending on site conditions. If

work cannot be completed to this speciﬁcation, please consult with the Occupational Therapist and relevant

Housing Provider/NIHE grants ofﬁce before proceeding.

SAMPLE

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

SAMPLE

Occupational Therapy Service

Outdoor, Supervised Enclosed Area Speciﬁcation

Service User Details Occupational Therapist

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Name:

Address:

Tel No:

Contact Person

(is different from above)

Date:

Preferred Location – To be sited where there is immediate access and visibility from property: Select option

Front Access Rear Access Side Access Extension Access

Area: Area should not exceed 30m

• Level surface to be provided throughout the enclosed area.

Fencing – Speciﬁcations

•

1.83m (6ft) high unless alternative height is speciﬁcally requested

• To be constructed with vertical wooden slats.

• Support structures to be positioned on the external side of the fence.

• Gap between boards should not exceed 20-30mm in order to prevent access to support structures.

• Gate (where appropriate) – to be same height and speciﬁcations as fence.

• Tamper-proof lock required

Any other speciﬁc instructions

N.B. Speciﬁcations are for guidance only and may be subject to change depending on site conditions.

If work cannot be completed to this speciﬁcation, please consult with the Occupational Therapist and

relevant Housing Provider/NIHE grants ofﬁce before proceeding.

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Section 7

Design Brief Guidance

For Housing Association

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

Design Brief Guidance for

Housing Associations

A design brief has been devised for use by Housing Associations which will help ensure a

consistency of approach in terms of the information required by NIHE Development Programme

Group for Disability Adaptations Grant.

Design Brief Contents structure for Major Adaptation

Section Title & headers Suggested content

Title page

Table of contents/glossary

Organisation Proﬁle & background

1. Project manager

2. Organisation name

3. Organisation purpose

4. Key design principles

Set out Design Standards to be applied; highlight, for

example, where relevant - Life time homes (LTH),

sustainability, innovation, legislative or regulatory issues,

funding requirements.

5. Relevant client details

Provide address; property type and any relevant context

details, contact arrangements, relevant household

information etc., history of adaptations or outcome of

any other options previously considered.

Commissioning Statement

6. Client need description

Insert key information from tenancy ﬁle and

Occupational Therapist recommendations.

7. Design requirements

Set out Value for money requirement – ‘within

existing footprint’ solution to be explored if best

value; requirement for consultant to identify options

for design solution; include details of any special

provisions required; refer to space matrix if applicable

and explain how the matrix works; specify requirements

for materials; and attach as appendix and explain, if

necessary, speciﬁcations from Occupational Therapist

recommendation.

8. Constraint

The initial investigation by the commissioning

organisation should identify any constraints. These

should be detailed in this section of the brief and the

consultant instructed to investigate and factor into the

design solution options produced. Such as: physical/

environmental contusing management issues affecting

delivery/design; planning/building control, liaison with

Utility companies regarding their existing cables, pipes

and plants onsite and in the area, and their terms and

conditions for alteration of same or provision of new as

necessary, any client special needs (design related not

personal information).

Interdepartmental Housing Adaptations Design Toolkit

9 Time

Specify deadline by which plans & design report

are required to meet performance targets; Insert

requirement for identiﬁcation of length of build phase as

part of option identiﬁcation

10. Cost analysis

Specify requirement for identiﬁcation and consideration

of costs as part of the identiﬁcation of preferred options;

Highlight any budgetary limits/ issues.

11. Liaison requirements

Solution Analysis

12. Risks/Beneﬁts

Outline beneﬁts of project: e.g. comment on anticipated

beneﬁt to client – reason why work required.

Outline identiﬁed risks: e.g. issues around potential

deterioration of client condition, family or caring issues.

If too expensive, transfer may be the ultimate solution.

(The project risks are likely to change as the project

progresses).

13. Planned solutions

Specify requirement for consultant to, for example:

1) identify best value design solution and to identify

available costed options; 2) identify any client funded

enhancements; 3) justify any provision in excess of

Occupational Therapist recommended requirements; 4)

justify not utilising any life time home features (where

applicable, including identifying any breach of LTH

status).

14. Plans

Detail the agreed speciﬁc minimum requirements for

detail and size of plans to meet agreed Occupational

Therapist endorsement & funding approval standards i.e.

ratio, furniture layouts etc.

Conclusion/Summary

RS-20-08-22-SC

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