A couple from Blackpool claim they have ‘nowhere to turn to’ after the council told the family that her home cannot be adapted to meet the requirements of her disabled children.
Lancs Live reports that Georgie Steel and her partner Ashley moved into their four-bedroom home 18 months ago with their four children, two of which, ten-year-old Henleigh and 9-year-old Harleigh, both have muscular dystrophy meaning they have mobility issues that require 24-hour support.
Then family were told in February 2020 by Blackpool Council, who would be responsible for approving the costs of any adaptations, that their new home could be adapted to meet her disabled sons’ requirements.
Henleigh is fully dependent on his seated walking frame as he can no longer bear his own weight and requires full support with walking, bathing, getting in and out of bed and using the toilet, meaning that he needs open and easy access to bedrooms and bathrooms.
However, months later, Georgie was told that following checks on the property, it would ‘not be suitable’ for her son, who will need additional equipment and space as he gets older.
Great Places Housing Group, which manages the property, say that they can only carry out the work if it is approved by the council.
Georgie said: “I just keep hitting brick walls and you just wake up most mornings and think to yourself, what is the point because you’re not getting anywhere.
“I’ve basically been left in limbo, looking for a place that I’m not going to be able to find.”
A Blackpool Council spokesperson said: “We understand that the family are looking to move and we have advised them how to apply for a transfer, that application will be prioritised based on an Occupational Therapist’s report.
“If they need any help with the application process we are more than happy to assist.”
If you’re working from home and need to update your mobility bathroom for extra accessibility, visit our site today, or if you are interested in finding out more information call us on 01491 411041 or visit our website.
15 September,2021
