The Occupational Therapy Service partnership with Foundations UK successfully delivers trusted assessor DFG training

The Occupational Therapy Service (TOTS), working with Foundations UK, is recommending all professionals responsible for Disabled Facilities Grants (DFG), attend its joint training programme so better outcomes can be achieved for clients requiring adapted housing.

TOTS provides a range of clinical and commercial services including training for housing, healthcare and equipment professionals. Its latest educational courses, provided in partnership with the national body for Home Improvement Agencies (HIA), Foundations UK, have proven rewarding for a growing number of attendees. The ongoing courses, which are held around the UK, have been popular with Local Authority staff including occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants, DFG Officers, HIA personnel, equipment suppliers and manufacturers. By attending, delegates can qualify as Level 4 DFG Trusted Assessors with a view to specifying the best DFG funded adaptations for their clients with disabilities.

Samantha Shann, occupational therapist and co-director at TOTS, comments:

“The course is designed to evolve and incorporate the latest insights and developments in DFG provision. By the end of the training, participants will not only have a solid foundation in assessing and recommending home adaptations but will also have the confidence and skills to make informed decisions in their respective roles.”

The 2-day hybrid course, combing in-person and online sessions, are hosted by senior occupational therapists from TOTS, who have extensive experience in DFG assessment and provision. Lynette ‘Netty’ Parkes, one of the facilitators and course developers, concurs with her colleague Samantha and adds:

“Whether you’re new to the role or have been doing it for years, this course can help develop new skills or refresh your knowledge. It not only teaches you how to assess a person’s needs holistically, but also how to recommend adaptations that are appropriate and personalised to the individual”

“One of the strengths of the course is that it gives the opportunity to learn alongside people from other professions. Everyone brings their own experience and perspective, and by understanding each other’s roles we can work together more effectively, ultimately achieving better outcomes while keeping the person at the heart of every assessment.”

Daniel Rankine, Head of Events and Marketing at Foundations, added:

“This OCN accredited Level 4 Trusted DFG Assessor course will take your professional practice to the next level. It is delivered by leading experts in the housing sector, The Occupational Therapy Service, and I would encourage all professionals to attend who have a duty of care to housing clients with disabilities.” 

Feedback from healthcare professionals attending the courses has been positive:

“It will help me further my career and improve lifestyle and independence of my clients.”

“The course leaders were very friendly and personable – their experience and knowledge shone through.”

“Really beneficial to hear how other authorities deliver the DFG. A good basis for me to develop in the workplace.”

DFG funded home adaptations are critical for enabling independent and inclusive living for people with restricted mobility. These modifications, typically provided by HIAs, are influenced by Foundations UK which plays a pivotal role in advising local and central government on home adaptations. Working with TOTS, its collaborative educational courses demonstrate how to:  

*       Recommend appropriate adaptations 

*       Identify complex cases

*       Apply knowledge practically 

*       Stay informed of best practices 

*       Ensure compliance and quality

To find out further details on this invaluable DFG Trusted Assessor Training programme email TOTS here, call:

0333 444 0062 or visit Foundations UK