A crisis for people with disabilities
The issue of accessible properties is an important area of concern for people with disabilities, Local Authorities and Housing Associations. Whilst the UK the government has made several commitments and pledges to create accessible buildings and homes that accommodate the needs of people with disabilities, there continues to be a shortage of accessible properties in the country.
Reasons for the shortage of accessible properties
There are several reasons for the shortage of suitable properties in the UK; the lack of enforcement and regulation that require new buildings to comply with accessibility standards, no legal requirements for private homes to be accessible, as well as the cost and time involved in converting existing properties. The government does offer some financial assistance for home adaptation but the funding is limited, the process can be cumbersome, confusing and still relies on the right type of property being available for adaptation.
Downstairs living solutions that fill the void
Now let’s imagine that there was a solution that allowed you to turn an inaccessible property into a safe, disabled-living environment, within days. There was no requirement for protracted planning arrangements. No crane or heavy lifting equipment required to manoeuvre the products, such as accessible wet-rooms, bedroom and kitchens into place, and when these rooms were no longer required they could be taken away without a trace.
Well that that is the main goal of Temporary Adapted Living Solutions. We can adapt our products to create tailored solutions that can be delivered and installed within days – removing one of the main barriers to rapid hospital discharge and filling the housing void for vulnerable customers. Our temporary, rentable solution is ideal for those waiting for home adaptation or whilst alternative property can be found.
The impact of the shortage of accessible properties
The shortage of accessible properties has a significant impact on people with disabilities and those leaving a care setting after injury or illness. It limits their choice to live independently, compromises dignity and hinders maximum rehabilitation, which can have physical and emotional consequences. Inaccessible properties may force people with disabilities to move away from friends and family or live in unsafe or unsuitable environments. They may also experience isolation and depression which can exasperate their disabilities.
Answers to the problem
The shortage of accessible properties is a crisis that affects people with disabilities across the UK but solutions exist that can help people today.
Temporary Adapted Living Solutions recently installed a temporary wet room extension that enabled downstairs living for a teenage boy with cerebral palsy whilst he and his family wait to secure funding to adapt their home. The temporary wet room has allowed Finlay and his Mother to overcome a multitude of challenges and has made a massive difference to the quality of life for Finlay.
Watch the full video about how Temporary Adapted Living Solutions helped Finlay and his family here:
