East Riding Introduces Rapid Home Adaptations for Terminal Conditions

Tuesday 20th October 2026

By Bridlington Gold Radio Editor

A Bridlington woman living with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) has received fast‑tracked home adaptations after East Riding of Yorkshire Council introduced new targets to speed up support for people with progressive, terminal conditions.

In January, councillors unanimously backed a motion committing the authority to delivering simple home adaptations within 55 days, and more complex works within 130 days — a significant reduction compared to national averages.

For 56‑year‑old Suzy England, who was diagnosed with MND in November 2025, the change has already transformed daily life. Suzy initially noticed weakness in her legs, assuming it was linked to chronic fatigue syndrome, but her diagnosis meant she soon required major changes to her home.

She was quoted thousands of pounds by private builders for bathroom alterations, external access improvements and other essential works — costs far beyond her means. But within weeks of contacting East Riding of Yorkshire Council, plans were drawn up, approved and scheduled.

Suzy said the speed of support was “amazing”.

“The council occupational therapist came round, and within a week they were looking at implementing adaptation plans. In two weeks, all the plans were drawn up, agreed and approved. They couldn’t get a ramp in, so they’re putting a lift in at the front of the house.”

The works — including a full remodelling of the family bathroom — totalled £33,200, with £30,000 covered by a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) and a £2,000 grant from the MND Association.

Suzy added:

“I can go upstairs to the shower now, and I’ve got a bath lift, but sometimes I’d prefer a shower. The council is coming to look at putting a wall‑mounted seat in. We didn’t know what we were going to do, but the council stepped in and filled in the application for us. They kept in touch with us all the time.”

The improvements follow the MND Association’s Unlock the Door campaign, which urges councils to ensure people with terminal, progressive conditions can access DFGs quickly. National research shows the average wait time for major adaptations — such as through‑floor lifts or level‑access bathrooms — is 375 days, despite a third of people with MND dying within a year of diagnosis.

Councillor Michael Lee, Cabinet Member for Housing and Infrastructure, said:

“These adaptations are key to supporting residents with Motor Neurone Disease. We’re proud to support our residents with MND with home adaptations suited for their needs.”

Flora Butler, MND Senior Policy Adviser for Care and Support, said Suzy’s experience shows fast‑tracking can work:

“We want to work with councils, not in opposition, to ensure people with MND are given the care and support needed more quickly and tailored to their needs. The Association is very grateful to East Riding of Yorkshire Council and others who have adopted our asks.”

More information about East Riding’s housing adaptations service is available at: https://www.eastriding.gov.uk/housing/council-tenants/adaptations-disabled-occupants/

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