NRHA enables life changing move

Northamptonshire Rural Housing Association has helped a couple to make a move they never thought possible and their lives are set to be transformed.

Tim and Frances Leighton have lived in the small village of Earls Barton all their lives.  Having moved into an NRHA property six years ago from a private rental, the couple have increasingly found living in their home a struggle as their needs have changed.

Frances, who has Parkinson’s disease, is no longer able to get into the bath as her illness has progressed, and the couple’s home does not have a shower.

With very limited affordable housing in the village, the Leightons thought they had no chance of finding a more suitable home in the village they love.

Tenancy Services Officer, Monique Witham, explains: “The couple was being encouraged to start bidding for a more suitable property, but Francis felt too unwell to do this.  When a property became available in the same street in which they were living, I knew it’d be perfect.

“In small villages like Earls Barton, properties don’t come up often and this one couldn’t have been better suited to the Leightons.

“We agreed a management move based on Frances’ needs and the couple were absolutely over the moon.

“They’re now moving into a bungalow down the road with a walk-in wet room and shower.  Frances says she’s relieved she’ll be able to wash her hair again!  The move is simply life-changing for them and we’re so pleased we’ve been able to make it happen.”