Life for Alison Dickinson was heavily dependent on her husband Bryan.
For the 68-year-old living with arthritis meant that doing the most simple of tasks like getting around the house took two of them to do it.
But thanks to the support of St Helens Borough Council Alison and Bryan’s lives have been transformed after benefitting from a variety of alterations like an accessible shower which give Alison independence again.
Alison Dickinson said: “I really do appreciate what the council has done for me. I have arthritis and couldn’t get out much without support. I got a shower fitted. It’s given me a new lease of life, I feel free to do anything. I can potter about the house or get outside if I want.
“They give you 100 per cent and the team are so friendly, they support you in everything they do, they are so caring. In the garden now I can get out and get planting. I really enjoy getting out and watching the plants grow and speaking to neighbours.”
At a Cabinet meeting on Wednesday councillors approved the council’s Housing Capital programme for the coming year which will see more people like Alison benefit from support to keep on living at home. The £3.1m will also go to support families in need of help with issues like keeping homes warm.
In the last year the council installed 113 accessible showers or wet rooms, 77 ramps, 140 lifts or hoists and three property extensions to help keep people in their homes, living independently.
Councillor Jeanie Bell, Cabinet Member for Safer, Stronger Communities, said: “I was lucky enough to visit Alison and see first-hand the difference these adaptations can have on a family’s life. This programme of work is critical to giving people dignity, independence and makes a real difference to a person’s quality of life. The team who deliver this support are amazing and hearing from Alison how happy she is now and able to enjoy gardening again it is recognition of their dedication.
“This capital fund will invest £3.1m in continuing to support families and will deliver not just funds for adaptations like Alison has benefitted from but also support for things like new boilers, radiators and repairs to those who need it most.”
Alison’s advice for someone interested in getting support? “Rather than just sit at home I would advise anyone to get support, I’m so pleased with what the council can do for a person like me or a person like you. They can change your life.”
To get an assessment and determine if you are eligible get in touch with Contact Cares, the borough’s single point of access for all social care and adult health referrals. Call 01744 676767, email contactcares@sthelens.gov.uk or make a self-referral online at www.sthelens.gov.uk/contactcares.
Visit www.sthelens.gov.uk/housing/home-maintenance-improvements-and-adaptations to learn more about the scheme.
Please be aware that some aids and adaptations require an Occupational Therapy assessment, for which there is currently a very high demand.
