Funding Equipment In The Home
Assistive technology funding varies widely across the country. Unlike other countries, disabled people in Ireland do not have any legal right to access funding and supports for aids and appliances. Therefore what provisions are made available, are open to adjustment in relation to other funding demands that are made upon services. The reality for many people is that the process of accessing equipment is unreliable and erratic which is extremely frustrating for users whose needs are left unmet.
Essentially, there are currently three principle sources of funding available for equipment and housing adaptation in Ireland. These are as follows:
If unsuccessful with securing funding from the sources mentioned above and a piece of equipment or assistive technology is purchased privately, a refund of the VAT paid can be sought from Revenue through the Private Purchase of Aids and Appliances VAT Refund scheme .
