Siblings Eric and Jim live at Housing 21’s Extra Care scheme in Bradford. Jim, 92, was one of the first residents to move into the scheme, having lived in Bradford for over 60 years. He moved to the UK from Barbados and worked as a bus driver for over 20 years. 

Four years after Jim moved into the Extra Care scheme, another apartment became available, and he told his brother Eric about the exciting opportunity to live closer to him.  Eric has worked as a social worker and an engineer, and he made the decision to live with Housing 21 because his brother was already a resident, and he was happy living at the scheme.  

One of the key benefits they enjoy living at an Extra Care scheme is the community spirit.  

We have lots of friends,” said Eric. The brothers enjoy playing dominos with the other residents at the scheme and happily spend hours taking part in the activity.  

The siblings prefer Bradford to other parts of the country and have settled well within the wider community as well as their own community within the scheme.  

“There is lots going on.” said Jim. “We have an active social life; everyone is really welcoming and our friends from outside the scheme come to join us for dominoes.” Despite living at the same scheme and having the same circle of friends, the brothers have their own apartments to ensure they still have their own space.  

Find out more about Extra Care properties with Housing 21 on the website: www.Housing21.org.uk