For people with physical or sensory impairments finding suitable housing can be a significant problem. The majority of housing in the UK was not built with much thought to the needs of disabled people and as a result it can hard to find accessible housing, or adapt an existing property.

It’s not just a matter of the obvious barrier of steps at the entrance to the house and stairs to the upper stories, plug sockets at ankle level or cupboard that are too high up can create huge problems for some people.

Another issue which concerns many disabled people is being safe from harassment in the area around their home. Unfortunately many disabled people experience name calling and anti-social behaviour targeted at them because they are disabled. For years disabled people have put up with this and sadly accepted it as part of life, but increasingly this sort of behaviour is being correctly identified as disability hate crime. SG DEN has been doing work on this issue and published a report. We have provided a little information on what to do if you feel that you are experiencing this sort of behaviour.

Staying in your own home

Most people when they acquire an impairment want to change as little about their lives as possible. Ideally they want to stay in their own home, hopefully with only a few alterations such as some grab-rails to help reduce the risk of falling.

WE Care and Repair can provide help in assessing your needs http://www.wecr.org.uk/ and may be able to undertake some minor work for you. They have a house in Yate which is equipped with examples of many aids and appliances to help with day to day living and a more comprehensive exhibition space in central Bristol.

In some cases your house may need more extensive alterations such as the installation of a wet-room, or even a downstairs extension to give you an extra bedroom. You may be eligible for a disabled facilities grant to help with the cost of this building work. You can apply for this from the Council http://www.southglos.gov.uk/community-and-living/grants/housing-improvements-disability-facility-grant/

Moving to a more accessible home

If you need to move house you will find that there is a national shortage of fully accessible housing. If you own your own house and are looking to buy you will need to ask Estate Agents to help find suitable housing for you.

If you are renting you may be eligible for social housing. Having a health problem which puts you at risk or in high need increases your chances of being allocated a property. To search for available social housing you should use the Council’s Home Choice service http://www.southglos.gov.uk/housing/council-housing/homechoice/

Staying safe in your neighbourhood

If you are experiencing behaviour in your neighbourhood which makes you feel vulnerable you should report it to the police. They have a range of ways of helping people to feel safe and tackle those who are harassing you.

If you live in social housing you should also report the problem to your landlord. They may be able to strengthen the security to your home and if the people harassing you are also their tenants they may be able to apply sanctions to them if they don’t stop.

Support for victims of this sort of behaviour is provided by Stand Against Racism and Injustice (SARI) http://www.sariweb.org.uk/ They have a helpline you can call 0800 171 2272 (freephone)