JEWISH BLIND & DISABLED
ONLY SEVEN PER cent of England’s housing provides the most basic features of accessibility making it suitable for people with disabilities. Sadly, as a result, many people with disabilities are living in unsuitable housing and not surprisingly, 38 per cent of people who have a long-term physical condition also experience severe mental health problems.
For many people living with disabilities, having suitable housing with support on hand is the key to being able to live an independent life.
Jewish Blind & Disabled has seven supportive developments of specially adapted mobility apartments, designed to enable people to do the everyday tasks that are key to living independently, in safety behind their own front door. All apartments feature accessible, modern fitted kitchens with relevant aids and adaptations and walk-in shower rooms spacious enough to accommodate wheelchairs.
The 24/7 on-site support from house managers provides tenants with peace of mind, knowing that someone is on hand if there is an issue.
There is also a support team to provide additional help, if required, with benefits, care packages, aids and adaptations.
The developments provide warm and welcoming Jewish communities within the wider local community. Should they wish, tenants can engage in a range of regular events in the communal areas and online.
When Michael was registered blind at the age of 40, he was struggling in his own home. That’s when his sister
I can live my life as I choose, not as my disability might dictate’
suggested Jewish Blind & Disabled. “My flat is much better suited to my needs and much easier to get around than my previous house,” he says. “I can live life as I choose, not as my disability might otherwise dictate.”
In addition to Jewish Blind & Disabled’s specialist developments of mobility apartments, it now also has an Independent Living Advisory Service which visits people living out in the community to offer help and guidance on the aids and technologies that could help them to maintain their much-prized independence without moving into one of the charity’s developments.