A family will soon move into a new and specially adapted home after waiting patiently for many years to find a suitable property.
The husband and grown-up son and daughter all have multiple and highly complex disabilities, so much so that the father and son haven’t seen each other for over five years, even though they live in the same house.
Lewes District Council stepped in with partners to build the family a new home in Ringmer that will include all the necessary adaptations to allow the husband and wife and two children to lead a full life together.
A specialist occupational therapy team has helped design the new home - ramps, hoists and a room for a 24-hour carer are amongst the many bespoke features being incorporated into the property.
Councillor James MacCleary, Leader of Lewes District Council, said: “The family has had to endure so much over the years, dealing with intense pressures and challenges that have made every day of their lives a struggle.
“I know this new home can’t solve every issue they are dealing with, but it will make a colossal difference and I’m delighted the council has played a part in that.”
In addition to funding from Lewes District Council and Homes England, a disabilities facilities grant of £180,000 was secured for the project.
Councillor Zoe Nicholson, Deputy Leader of Lewes District Council, said: “I hope the family will find great happiness in their new home.
“There is a shortage of specially adapted properties all over the UK, but the way we have worked with our partners to bring this fantastic project to fruition, shows what can be achieved when there is a shared purpose to deliver the outcomes that we all want to see.”
Local contractor, John Farrington & Co, is building the new home and hopes the family will take possession of the property by September 2023.
Councillor Johnny Denis, Cabinet Member for Communities and Customers, said: “I simply can’t wait until this wonderful new house in Ringmer is completed and the family are enjoying living there. When the Co-operative Alliance took control of the council in 2019, we set our sights on doing everything in our power to build more homes for local people and I couldn’t happier that this family are among the many local people to benefit.”
Published on March 16, 2023.
