Michael lives with reduced mobility as a result of being born with polio. In addition, he has experienced varying degrees of depression throughout his life for which he requires support. Before being referred to Habinteg, Michael lived in different hostel accommodation for over 15 years.
Michael has lived in his Habinteg home since 1989. It is a self-contained, 2-bedroom bungalow built to wheelchair user standards in Roundhay, Leeds. This small scheme has 41 properties and an on-site Community Assistant who provides support to tenants when they need it.
Originally, Michael moved to Roundhay with his girlfriend and their young daughter. However, Michael found the transition to independent living quite stressful. This made his depression worse and as a result, his family life was badly affected. To remedy the situation, Habinteg arranged for Michael's girlfriend and daughter to move out, but agreed that Michael could remain living in the larger property, so that his family could come and stay whenever they wanted. This allowed Michael to adjust to his new independence at his own pace and maintain his relationship. He was able to enjoy his family more and they were less affected by his depression.
"It was a struggle to cope at first" says Michael "but Claire (the Habinteg Community Assistant) sorted out my Home Help and a day centre for me to go to. Claire also makes sure I see an Occupational Therapist whenever I need to. I can also see Claire whenever I need to, as she is always there for me."
"I find the fixtures and fittings are getting more useful to me now that I'm getting older, and it's so comforting to know that I won't ever need to move house. Some of the accessible features really help when my new grand-daughter comes to visit too. I'm much happier and more relaxed here. I enjoy being in charge of my own affairs. I like having people come to visit or stay with me, but being able to be on my own is really important too. Habinteg, especially Claire, are keeping me independent."
