“Being homeless at 60 left me feeling vulnerable”

John Woolman House in Leicester helped Pauline to gain her independence again.

Pauline is a fantastic example of someone who enjoys the benefits of living in one of our Independent Living for Older People Schemes (ILOPs). We provide support when you need it, but you’ll have a completely independent life when you don’t.

NCHA has 13 schemes like John Woolman House across the East Midlands, and each one has its own unique sense of community and style.

Take a read of Pauline’s story

“After a series of terrible events at the age of 60, I found myself with nowhere to live and moved into a homeless shelter. Those were dark times for me, but luckily the manager there supported me to look for alternative housing. I was so pleased when I was offered the flat I now live in at John Woolman House. It’s an area I’m familiar with as I grew up across the road from it, so straight away it felt like home. It helped that I happened to view the flat midway through their Christmas Party, so I could see what a welcoming and sociable place it was.

“It’s a completely self-contained two bedroom flat, but it has the added bonus of staff on site who helped me to gain a sense of independence after previously being so vulnerable. The location is lovely and peaceful considering how close we are to the city. It has easy access to Victoria Park and is just a 10 minute walk into the city.

“I’m so grateful to the team for getting me moved in and helping me get my life back on track. That was nearly 19 years ago! I’m highly independent, and the staff don’t see me much – but I know they are there when I need them.”

If you or a family member are interested in finding out more about our ILOPs we would encourage you to come and visit us. Search our homes to rent for current vacancies.