Jacqueline Hume and her two children settled into their council house in the early 1990s, finding it to be the perfect size for their family. However, after more than 30 years, Jacqueline is now facing the dilemma of finding a new home. Her children have grown up and moved out, leaving her living alone in a house that is too big for her needs.
Jacqueline, who is 58 years old and living with multiple sclerosis, is in search of a smaller, more manageable bungalow for herself and her Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Bella. Despite her efforts over the past seven years to find a suitable place to live, she has been unsuccessful. She wants to relocate closer to her daughter and grandchildren in Higher Blackley but has faced challenges due to age restrictions on available properties.
The rising demand for social housing in Manchester has made it difficult for individuals like Jacqueline to find suitable accommodation. With a waiting list of 17,000 people for social housing in the city, the situation highlights the struggles many face in securing appropriate housing. Jacqueline’s mobility issues, requiring the use of a scooter, and the challenges of maintaining a larger home have added to her urgency to find a new place to live.
Despite bungalows being available in other parts of the city, Jacqueline is hesitant to move too far away, fearing isolation. The lack of suitable housing options for individuals under the age of 60 has added to her frustration. Restrictions based on age can be limiting for those with specific needs, such as a ground-floor living space due to health conditions like multiple sclerosis.
Manchester City Council acknowledges the challenges faced by individuals like Jacqueline and is working to address the demand for different types of housing. Programs like the “rightsizing” scheme aim to assist residents in moving to more suitable homes, with a focus on developing new social housing options across the city. While restrictions based on age may apply in certain cases, the council is committed to supporting those in need of alternative housing solutions.
Jacqueline’s experience sheds light on the complexities of the housing market, especially for individuals with specific needs and circumstances. As she continues her search for a new home, she hopes to find a place that meets her requirements for comfort, accessibility, and proximity to her loved ones. The ongoing efforts of housing authorities and support services play a crucial role in addressing the housing challenges faced by many in the community.