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18 December 2020

An adapted home will make a huge difference to Hilary's health

An adapted home will make a huge difference to Hilary's health
Where we live has never been more important to how we live. The Home manifesto highlights some of the key challenges facing the sector, with housing associations committed to working side by side with the next Welsh Government to build healthier, more prosperous, and better-connected communities.


Hilary Stokes, 77, from Porthmadog has been a tenant with Grŵp Cynefin for 21 years. She is preparing to move to a new property which has been adapted to meet her health needs. She says:


My health has declined in recent years and I’m no longer able to get around as easily, so when Grŵp Cynefin offered me a ground floor flat with an adapted shower on a new development I accepted immediately. It’s going to make such a difference and I can’t wait to move in a few weeks. They’re even arranging the removal van to help me with the move which is a big help.


“I can’t thank Grŵp Cynefin enough for the support they have given me, especially the welfare team. My washing machine broke recently and I was put in contact with the welfare team who helped me apply for funding from the Welsh Government for a new machine.


“From there, their support just escalated. One of the welfare officers, Verity, helped me apply for the benefits I was entitled to but had no idea about, so I now get £156 weekly support for Attendance Allowance and Severe Disability Premium (SDP) on my pension.


“I can’t believe the difference it has made, I’m no longer scraping by, and my mental health has really improved.


“Verity also put me in touch with an Occupational Therapist which has made a huge impact on my health. They have honestly turned my life around. Just knowing they are there to help is a weight off my shoulders.”


Read more about the Home manifesto here.