Jean’s story
Jean is one of our customers who was living in Leamington Spa. Her home was getting to be too much for her with three flights of stairs, plus she had become lonely and isolated during the pandemic.
In December 2022, Jean’s Property Manager, Barry, paid her a visit and could see the impact her living conditions were having on her. He told her about one of our local Independent Living schemes, Queensway Court not far from where Jean was living. It has a great community and plenty of on-site facilities which he thought Jean would really enjoy. Sometime later, Jean took a tour of Queensway and after meeting Emma Independent Scheme Manager, and her team at the scheme, she soon moved in.
Jean said “On first entering Queensway, I was so surprised - it opened my eyes to what is available. It was like a different world! I’m still independent, it’s like living again and has completely changed my life for the better. I feel more relaxed and no longer feel alone because I can go downstairs to have a coffee and talk to people. I can also attend activities like skittles and ‘knit and natter’. I feel so happy now. My apartment is lovely and cosy - without stairs and I feel safe. I wish I had moved in years ago!”
We believe that having a sense of community unites us. We all want peace of mind, especially as we grow older. We also want to live in quality housing that is safe, easy to access, maintain and affordable, all whilst enabling us to live life to the full.
Our Independent Living communities provide you with the opportunity to connect with other people and improve your wellbeing by giving you a safe and secure, serviced home.
For a feature in our campaign, simply share with us what you are doing to make your community a #APlacetoBelong by emailing campaigns@orbit.org.uk with details of how you are getting involved, no matter how big or small and you could receive a £20 ‘Love to Shop’ voucher if your story is featured.
For all of this and more make sure to visit our Good Neighbour Hub, where we will be featuring stories, sharing resources and promoting any future competitions. Our campaign updates will feature on our social media so make sure to follow us by searching @OrbitHelp on Facebook and Twitter.
