This research was commissioned to inform a review group set up by ODPM (now DCLG) (jointly with the Department of Health and the then Department for Children, Schools and Families) to examine the working of the disabled facilities grant and make proposals for change. The review followed a decision in Northern Ireland in 2003 to abolish the means test for disabled facilities grant in respect of families with a disabled child, and was a response to pressure for a similar reform in England. The purpose of the research was to gather broad information on the working of the current system, to explore and cost possible options for change and to prepare some recommendations for the review group. The methods used comprised a case study of the system in Bristol City Council, structured interviews with a range of key players, a national survey of 40 local authorities, focus groups to consider options and modelling of likely costs and benefits.