A fully accessible home transforms life for Leicester family

After months in temporary accommodation, Katie and her two children have finally found a safe, energy-efficient home designed for their needs.

When Katie, a single mum of two, was declared homeless through no fault of her own, life became incredibly challenging. With her nine-year-old daughter visually impaired and reliant on a wheelchair, and her three-year-old son having his own care needs, finding a suitable home was almost impossible.

For months, Katie and her children lived in hotels because there was nothing appropriate available on the housing waiting list. “It was really hard,” Katie recalls. “We weren’t eating properly, mostly takeaways and it didn’t feel like home.”

Finding the right home

Katie’s occupational therapist recommended our new development in Leicester, so she applied through the housing register. The scheme includes homes designed for accessibility, something Katie desperately needed.

After going through the application process, Katie was thrilled to be offered a three-bedroom semi-detached house. The property is fully accessible, featuring:

• Wide entry doorways
• A wheelchair lift to the first floor
• A wet room and ramps
• An adjustable-height kitchen

“These homes are so hard to come by,” Katie says. “When I found out we’d got it, I was over the moon.”

Settling in

Katie and her family moved in April. “The house was brand new, all I had to do was get carpets and curtains fitted,” she explains. “I absolutely love it. We’ve settled so much better here than anywhere before.”

She’s noticed a big difference in comfort and energy efficiency too: “It’s much warmer, no gaps in doors and the solar panels help keep bills down. It’s a brand-new home and very energy efficient.”

A fresh start

Now, Katie and her children have space, security, and a supportive community. “I’ve got good neighbours, and I’m really happy,” she says.

It’s great to see families like Katie’s flourishing. This home is part of our commitment to providing affordable, accessible housing across the East Midlands.