A delegation of MPs from the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Select Committee have visited Oxford to see the city's initiatives which support older, disabled and vulnerable residents.
The trip was planned to see the assistance provided by Oxford City Council, ensuring that these residents can live safely and independently.
The committee, including MPs Clive Betts and Nadia Whittome, was using this visit as part of their research for a parliamentary inquiry into the Disabled Facilities Grant and related alterations.
The Council's Home Improvement Agency makes sure older, vulnerable, or disabled residents are provided with the necessary help to live comfortably.
The Agency offers financial aid such as grants and low-interest loans, along with services to those requiring support with home repairs, maintenance or adaptations.
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These adjustments can range from a grab rail installation or energy-efficient improvements to larger changes like stairlifts or level access showers.
The group, composed from various political parties, had a meeting with Council leader Susan Brown, chief executive Caroline Green and Home Improvement Agency manager Becky Walker.
They also met the staff of the Home Improvement Agency and residents who have benefitted from the Agency's aid.
Councillor Hannah Dalton, housing spokesperson for the District Council's Network, said: "We thank Committee members for visiting Oxford today to meet with councils and residents to discuss the challenges facing people with disabilities in the housing sector.
"We heard the excellent work which Oxford City Council is doing to support their residents with disabilities and want to see the removal of the barriers which means people elsewhere may not always receive similar support.
"The District Council's Network continues to call on the Government to increase the Disabled Facilities Grant which will enable people to get the home improvements they need.
"It’s evident from today’s discussions that more needs to be done to encourage housing associations and private landlords to permit adaptations."
Councillor Susan Brown, leader of Oxford City Council, added: "The visit by the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Select Committee was a great opportunity to recognise and highlight the excellent work being done by Oxford City Council’s award-winning Home Improvement Agency.
"Importantly it also enabled local residents and our frontline experts to contribute to the shaping of future policies and reforms that will further improve the lives of individuals with disabilities.
"We are really proud of the progress we've made in creating an inclusive and accessible community in Oxford, but we are always striving to be even better.
"We were delighted today to be able to play our part in trying to ensure that everyone can live with the dignity and independence they deserve in a suitable home."
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