Navigator supports client with mobility and housing issues

Find out how Age UK Islington Navigator, Constance, was able to help client Andrew with a move to Sheltered Housing (Not real photo).

Andrew was referred to Age UK Islington by Adult Social Services’ Urgent Response team for ‘urgent’ rehousing. 

When Andrew was discharged from hospital, it was discovered that the tiny flat where he had been living in for years had become unsafe for him due to mobility issues.  He was also very isolated and he had essentially become a prisoner in his own home.

The flat was a single room in a converted house up 5 flights of very steep stairs and Andrew was unable to use the stairs independently. He was trapped in his room as there was not enough space to use his waking frame to get outside from his room.  He was also worried about his neighbours.

When Andrew was discharged from hospital back to his flat, he had an episode where he collapsed and was admitted to hospital yet again.  On discharge this time round, he was transferred to a rehabilitation centre in Islington where he could get more support. 

“I came down to London in the 70s to spread my wings and I had been living in the same flat all those years. I used to work for a university as a messenger. I enjoyed it but retired in my 60s. Since then I haven’t been doing anything special. Looking back, once I couldn’t walk so well, it was terrible in the flat. Most of the time I was just sitting there and watching TV.

“In this new place where I am now, I am getting along quite nicely.  It allows people to be themselves. Constance from Age UK Islington has helped me apply for sheltered accommodation and to do all the forms. There were lots of documents that I didn’t have. I’ll be able to start again now. I’m looking forward to it and being able to get on with life.”

Age UK Islington Navigator, Constance also helped Andrew to apply for Attendance Allowance which now helps him pay for his care. She also helped coordinate his discharge, working with the social worker to get this arranged and helped him to purchase items for his new home. He is expecting to move to the sheltered accommodation in the coming weeks.

For more information

If you have any thoughts about this article or if you're interested in finding out more about Age UK Islington services, please contact Michael O'Dwyer, Head of Service - Personalised Care & Support, Age UK Islington.

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