Alice McIntyre, 70, lost almost all of her belongings when a lit candle placed too close to a jacket caused a serious fire in her home in Drumchapel in Glasgow last year. The blaze caused extensive damage to her flat and the communal close.

Alice, who has lived in her home for more than 25 years, moved into temporary accommodation nearby with her pet Chihuahua, Louis, while Wheatley Homes carried out a full refurbishment.

Now safely back in her fully restored flat, Alice says she is “grateful” for the support she received from Wheatley throughout the process.

Alice said: “I was delighted when I saw all of the changes. I honestly wanted to move back in that evening.  I couldn’t wait to get back. It was devastating to lose so many sentimental items and pieces of furniture in the fire, but I’m really happy to be back in my home.

“I like my close, and I’m delighted with my new kitchen and bathroom, and the support I’ve had from Frank, my housing officer, has been great.”

Wheatley carried out a full refurbishment of the property, including a new kitchen, electrical and plumbing upgrades, joinery and plastering works and full redecoration throughout. 

Alongside the repair works, the social landlord continues to support Alice as she settles back in. This includes help to replace essential household items through its partnership with Starter Packs – which provides tenants with basic items such as crockery, toiletries, kettles and duvets – and through Wheatley Foundation’s Home Comforts service, which refurbishes donated furniture and passes it on to tenants free of charge.

Aisling Mylrea, managing director of Wheatley Homes Glasgow, said: “Experiencing a fire in your home can be incredibly upsetting, and our priority was making sure Alice felt supported and reassured at every stage.

“We’re pleased to have restored her home, but just as importantly, we want tenants to know that help is always available – whether that’s support after an incident or advice on staying safe at home.”