The Scheme of Assistance, in plain language

What the Scheme of Assistance is

The Scheme of Assistance is Edinburgh Council's framework for helping disabled people and older adults adapt their homes to live safely and independently. It exists under the Housing (Scotland) Act 2006 and is administered locally.

Who qualifies

• You live in Edinburgh, in your own home or a rented home.
• An Occupational Therapist has assessed you and recommended an adaptation.
• Means-testing applies to some — but not all — categories of work.

How the OT referral process works

• You — or your GP, family, or social worker — contact the Council's Adaptations team.
• An Occupational Therapist visits you at home to assess your needs.
• The OT writes a specification: "the client requires X adaptation, to Y standard."
• The Council confirms which works are covered, and what (if any) contribution you owe.

What typical funding covers

• Mandatory adaptations such as level-access bathing where prescribed.
• Stair lifts and through-floor lifts where stairs are unsafe.
• Doorway widening, ramps, threshold easing.
• Hand- and grab-rail installation, kitchen adaptations.

What AdaptScot does within the SoA process

• We design and coordinate the adaptation to the OT's specification — to a standard you'd be proud of.
• We hold the contract with the trades, so you don't have to.
• We produce all paperwork the Council needs to release funds.
• We follow up at 14 days and 30 days after handover.

Framework and partner status

AdaptScot is set up to work with Edinburgh Council, Care & Repair Edinburgh, housing associations, and OT-led referrals. Where a formal framework or approved-supplier process applies, we provide insurance evidence, policies, scope documents, and reporting in the format the partner requires.

Step by step

1. OT assessment and written specification.
2. Council confirms funding and any contribution.
3. AdaptScot survey, design, and trade specification.
4. Trade quotes shared with you (and Council where required).
5. Works delivered, certified, signed off.
6. 14- and 30-day follow-up.

FAQ

Do I have to use AdaptScot if my OT recommends an adaptation?

No. You're free to use any qualified contractor approved under the Scheme.

How long does the whole process take?

From OT specification to handover is typically 6–14 weeks for a level-access bathroom, longer for curved stair lifts.

What if I want a higher standard than the Scheme will fund?

You can top up the works privately. We'll separate funded and self-funded scope clearly in writing before any work begins.

Talk to us about your SoA process →