3 Reasons Why You Should Save The Haven - Accessibility

Save The Haven

The Haven is made up of ten accessible bungalow in Prudhoe, owned by Karbon Homes. Karbon plan to demolish it, with no clear plans of where to house the elderly/disabled residents and replace the buildings with 'family homes'. I have been campaigning behind the scenes and have contemplated whether to keep it this way or publicise some of the reports I've presented. There are many, passionate people who are campaigning to keep the bungalows which is fantastic news, but we need as much support as possible. I have gone down the accessibility route, since this is my area, but others have campaigned for different reasons so please do check out the latest posts available on social media!

93% of homes don't meet accessibility standards. The Haven provides accessible homes for the elderly and disabled.

Over 11 million people have lifelong illnesses, impairmaints or disabilities which now affects 16% of working aged adults and 45% of adults over state pension age. Yet, 1 in 3 people still live in non-decent accomodation. (gov.uk)

The English Housing Survey showed that 93% of homes don't meet accessibility standards and many developers are not building for people as they age. With nearly three quarters (72%) of UK adults thinking all homes should be built to be suitable for all ages and abilities, the lack of accessible housing being built & maintained is astonishing.

Karbon Homes stated 'There is less need for older, one bedroom bungalows'. Currently, they are all occupied which proves there is clearly a need for the housing. Because of the lack of accessible housing not only in the area, but nationwide, finding 10 accessible houses in close proximity will be almost an impossible task. Karbon say it might take a year to move residents out and my greatest concern is that they will be moved to inappropriate accommodation.
Because of the extreme shortage for accessible housing not only in the area but nationwide, I do not think there would be an issue filling a vacancy if someone was to ever leave The Haven, which could be a concern of Karbon's, and in the report above it shows that younger home owners are also willing to look at accessible homes.

The impact of not having a suitable accessible home includes poor mental health, social isolation, mobility problems and the indignity of not being able to live independently. 

The impact of not having a suitable accessible home includes social isolation and anxiety, poorer mental health, mobility problems, indignity of not being able to live independently and being 4 times less likely to work. Having an accessible home means that older relatives or disabled people can visit, so there is still a need for these homes even if it's not directly for the buyer.

Currently, the locations for The Haven is important to all residents for accessibility and is close to a bus stop, doctors, pharmacy, local amenities and socialisation. Moving the residents to a different location could have a dramatic effect on health, socialisation and general happiness of residents. It is also important to note that many of the occupants are elderly or have health problems, the stress caused by this and the move could be detrimental to their health.

Many residents have just had refurbishments and adaptations made on their house

Residents have recently refurbished housing to a high standard and have been offered a sum of £6,100 for their home loss. Speaking to one resident who had decorated including laying carpets, lino & blinds it seems a small sum for the amount of work put into the house but also a waste of the love & effort put into the property. Others have had work done such as ramps and wet rooms which the council only provide a contribution towards (usually £1,000) and the rest comes from your own funds. Will this be paid back to the residents and will they get the same facilities in their new home if The Haven is demolished?

The residents of The Haven want to stay, the town is backing them, will Karbon agree? Let me know your thoughts! 

Sign the petition here

Kate x

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