inheritance

[Mr.P]

[...] we need a ground floor bedroom due to my wife's disabilities. We have always had the intention to build a single storey extension to provide a double bedroom and a walk in shower room

 

In case you are not aware of it - You may well find you can claim VAT exemption for any building works that are for the benefit of a disabled occupant. For some adaptations, grants are also available, but these usually have qualifying conditions attached (usually a savings ceiling).

 

As an example, once my mother was registered blind, we could get a new bathroom built and not pay any VAT. Financial assistance was also available in the form of grants as long as her savings were below £23,000 and she remained in the property for a minimum of (I think) five years.

[Mr.P]

Some info about VAT from HMRC: http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/vat/sectors/builders/disabled.htm (side note: You may also qualify for VAT relief when it comes to purchasing a car).

 

As for grants, you'd need to talk to the Adult Social Services department at the county council. Failing that, check to see if you have a local Age Uk office and have a chat with them. There is quite a bit of help and support out there, but it isn't always easy to find or access until you know who to ask. The level of support also depends on the disability and savings/income.

 

I only scratched the surface when I had to look into this.