Cheshire East Council has taken the decision to deliver an enhanced offer of adaptations that people can make in their own homes – supporting people to live independently.

The decision, which was made at the cabinet meeting on Tuesday, focused on continuing to use a framework approach to its installation of level access showers, and wet rooms for residents who need them most.

Cllr Laura Jeuda, cabinet member for adults social care and health, said: "The installation of a wet room or ground floor shower could mean the difference between a person being able to stay in their own home with support, and avoiding the need for moving into a care home.

"A framework gives us consistency, economies of scale with an agreed pricing structure, and an efficient service without the need to tender for each individual wet room.

"It also supports people to remain in their homes, reducing demand of social care support services."

Cllr Nick Mannion, cabinet member for environment and regenerations, said: "This decision is focused on supporting people's personal resilience, by enabling them to remain living in their homes.

"The framework completes a suite of contracts to enable the council to provide a comprehensive domestic repairs and adaptations service to vulnerable residents."

Level access showers are funded using the mandatory means-tested Disabled Facilities Grant provided by the council, which has an annual budget of £2.4million for Disabled Facilities Grants, of which nearly £2.06million is received from central Government.

Residents who would like more information about adaptations for their home can find out more information by visiting the live well pages on the council's website.