900 people with mobility problems living in unsuitable homes

In the 12 months to April, the NIHE made 2,566 minor adaptations to properties for people with disabilities, as well as 121 major adaptations. It also installed 157 stair lifts and 26 vertical lifts to aid those with mobility issues.

Since the 2016/17 financial year, 15,617 minor adaptations have been made to Housing Executive properties, in addition to 679 major adaptations, 978 stair lifts and 197 vertical lifts.

Currently there are 935 transfer applications for those with mobility issues who are living in unsuitable accommodation.

SDLP MLA Mark H Durkan said: “The news that over 900 people with mobility issues are living in unsuitable accommodation is the latest statistic that adds to the ever-widening picture of the Northern Ireland’s housing crisis.

“Living with health issues or a disability is already challenging enough without living in a home that is not suitable to cater for your specific needs.

“I would call on Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey to work with the Housing Executive to take immediate action to find homes for these people that are fit for purpose or to make whatever accommodations are needed to their current residency so that they can live comfortably.

“We also need to see wider action to address the housing crisis. There needs to be a focus on building new social housing, including bungalows and single storey developments.

“We recently learned that only one social housing bungalow had been built in Mid Ulster in five years. These types of properties better cater for people with health and physical challenges.

“There are too many people waiting for a home, whether because of mobility issues, damp and mould or overcrowding. I want to hear the Communities Minister’s plans to address these issues so that everyone has a place to call home.”

Alliance MLA Kellie Armstrong, vice chair of Stormont’s Communities Committee, said these figures show the need to improve delivery times for those seeking accommodation, and to ensure people are able to access adaptations in a timely manner.

“In an ageing society we have to plan for housing that will suit people’s needs throughout their life,” she added.

“This is further proof we need a housing outcome in the Programme for Government. It is concerning the Communities Minister has not consulted on what that outcome needs to include.”

A Housing Executive spokesperson said; “Despite completing nearly 3,000 adaptations last year — at a time of significant Covid restrictions — demand for accommodation from those with mobility issues remains high.

“When an applicant approaches us citing mobility issues, we carry out assessments to determine suitability of a property and discuss next steps with the applicant. Options may include making new build accommodation available, pursuing an adaptation to a current property or utilising a management transfers to move an applicant to a more suitable property which is available from within our current stock.

“As well as Housing Executive tenants, applicants also present to us from local housing associations. We always work to provide a suitable housing solution as quickly as possible in these cases.”