Sarah moved to one of our Extra Care schemes in 2023 following a stroke.   

“After my stroke, our family home was no longer accessible and I was confined to one room and supported by carers,” said Sarah.  

“Despite having a life-long disability and having my leg amputated when I was just 17, I had always lived independently so I found my new situation frustrating. I was a prisoner in my own home; I slept downstairs and couldn’t have my windows open. My mental health began to suffer, and I felt anxious and depressed.”  

When Sarah spoke to her social worker about how she was feeling, they suggested looking at alternative options like our Extra Care scheme. Sarah decided to visit the scheme and moved in shortly after.   

“It’s not something I’d ever considered because I hadn’t needed to,” she said. “But as I came through the doors, my life changed. Being here allows me to retain as much of my independence as possible.   

“I need Care Workers to help me with personal care, but I can do so much more for myself. I’m no longer a prisoner in my own home; I can go shopping, to the doctors or to church. I can have the windows wide open as I’m on the first floor and I feel safe. There’s care and support if and when I need it, but choice and control stay with me.”  

Since moving into the Housing 21 scheme, Sarah has become one of our influencers of the future through joining the Disability Forum.   

“I have a lifelong disability and have been an advocate for those with disabilities, personally and professionally, for as long as I can remember,” said Sarah.  

“As a member of the group, I attend meetings online every couple of months, reading and respond to emails and comment on policy documents. It fits around my daily life and allows me to make a difference in some small way.  

When asked why Resident Engagement Groups are important, she said: “We all have a voice but the only way it can be heard is if we use the opportunities available to us, whether that’s by joining a group or completing the annual resident survey.  

“So far, I’ve been able to comment on a policy document and I’m excited to get involved in more opportunities to influence services as they become available. 

“Your voice is as important as mine, and I would encourage other residents to join the groups. Be the change you want to see, contribute, participate. At least sit in on a meeting and see how it works.  You have nothing to lose and much to gain.  After my stroke I felt lost, but the groups helped me find a way back to being the old me.”  

We’re committed to working collaboratively with our residents to improve and develop services. There are a number of ways that residents can influence the future of Housing 21, including our Resident Engagement Groups. The Disability Forum that Sarah is involved in is one of seven groups that residents can get involved in.  

Find out more about our Resident Engagement Groups.