Eve Young

Working with the dedicated Occupational Therapist team to support the National Spinal Injuries Unit, Philipshill Ward, the project has been running for just over six months and has already assisted approximately 25 people to apply for adapted and accessible homes to help them regain independence.

The organisations have been able to offer guidance on various housing options, including social housing, sheltered housing, and home ownership.

However, for many people, social housing remains the only viable option. Due to the high demand for social housing, especially wheelchair accessible properties, clients often face long waiting times. 

Housing Options Scotland said it has witnessed some great successes with a number of clients successfully moving into tenancies.  

Moira Bayne, CEO, added: “This is a new direction for our service. One of our experienced and qualified brokers runs weekly housing options surgery in conjunction with the occupational therapy team. Together, they give support and advice to patients who are ready for discharge. This one-to-one service provides the added security of knowing they have professional input to support housing applications.

“We understand the challenges people face trying to live with an injury and having to find a different Home. The two teams dedicate their time and efforts to helping patients look at availability of housing along with the range of tenures. The OT’s do a great job of ensuring the person is prepared for discharge, armed with the right information to help them on their journey.”

Eve Young, senior housing options broker, said: “Being involved in the Housing Clinic at the Spinal Injuries Unit is both rewarding and challenging. It offers a valuable opportunity to build meaningful relationships with clients by meeting them and their families face to face and truly becoming a part of their journey.”

In such challenging times for the housing sector, the project also focuses on expanding Housing Options Scotland’s network of contacts within the housing sector and working in a collaborative way to help people find the right size home and reduce time in hospital.