Earlier in the summer, the FlexStep was installed at Royal Scot Court after grant funding from the Scottish Government. The system serves the purpose of ordinary steps but can also transform into a platform lift, delivering better accessibility for wheelchair users and those with mobility needs.

The court had not been entirely accessible, with roughly five steps separating residents from their flats and the rest of the court, such as the communal lounge and outdoor spaces.

Residing at Royal Scot Court for nearly 25 years, Alice McCulloch has seen a major difference in accessibility with the FlexStep. 

McCulloch’s mobility has considerably worsened in recent years, leaving her mostly unable to exit her flat. Her daughter also lives at Royal Scot Court, but McCulloch was not able to visit her. When her son needed to take her out of her flat, it was a complex process involving two wheelchairs placed at different ends of the court.

But with the FlexStep, McCulloch is now able to exit her flat independently, go and see her daughter and spend her time in the communal lounge with neighbours. She has also been able to go to appointments and experience more freedom. 

McCulloch said: “I want to say what a boon the FlexStep has been for me since it was installed. It is now so much easier for me to visit my friends without getting stressed at having to use normal steps. Thank you!”

Audrey Simpson, chief executive of Cairn Housing Association, said: “It’s fantastic to hear what a difference the FlexStep has made to Alice’s life and to see her able to reconnect with her friends, family and community at Royal Scot Court.

“Making our homes and communities more accessible can have a huge impact on people’s independence and wellbeing …”

The FlexStep has also supported other residents at the court, allowing for an easier way for them to move between their homes and the wider communal spaces of the court.

Looking ahead, Cairn intends to continue efforts to create homes and communities that satisfy the ongoing needs of its tenants and help people to live independently.