The Brief
Bridget experienced a life-altering accident at home when she fell down a flight of stairs, suffering a head laceration and temporary loss of consciousness. Initially, she underestimated her injuries; however, the fall resulted in multiple fractures and an unstable spine. As her condition worsened, Bridget became reliant on a wheelchair, severely restricting her mobility and confining her to the ground floor of her home.
She had no access to proper bathing facilities, as her living room doubled as her bedroom with a hospital bed. This situation necessitated the urgent need for a suitable rental property that could accommodate her new lifestyle, prompting her personal injury firm to engage PLG to identify a property that could be tailored to her requirements.
The Challenge
The primary challenge was navigating the competitive and fast-paced London rental market to find a property that met Bridget’s unique requirements.
The property needed to offer not only accessibility but also adaptability for her physical limitations. Initial property searches faced setbacks due to Bridget’s specific needs, compounded by a limited supply of suitable homes. Properties encountered either had unfavourable locations or architectural barriers that hindered wheelchair access.
The task required a strategic approach, involving regular communication with letting agents and analysis of property portals like Rightmove, Zoopla, Prime Location, and OnTheMarket to catch fleeting opportunities.
The Solution
PLG adopted a comprehensive search strategy, beginning with a detailed meeting at Bridget’s home to understand her needs and establish search parameters. This groundwork was crucial in tailoring the search. Every potential property was thoroughly assessed through video walkthroughs and photos, uploaded to a secure client site for Bridget and her stakeholders. Early promising finds, such as a bungalow, were rejected due to location concerns. However, perseverance led to discovering a ground-floor flat that could be adapted to Bridget’s needs. PLG negotiated a favourable three-year tenancy with a break clause, enabling necessary modifications comprising:
- Installation of a new wet room to enable implementation of a full care regime, including level access shower and specialist sanitaryware.
- Relocation of the bedroom door to create simplified access to the bedroom.
- New internal ramps to door thresholds and external decking to allow independent access to the garden.
- Amendments to the existing kitchen to allow use of the hob whilst in a wheelchair.
- New Karndean flooring where needed to make it as easy as possible to get around in a wheelchair.
- Hoist installation in the bedroom and therapy rooms.
- Heating and lighting automation to allow voice control.
PLG’s architectural team meticulously planned these modifications, ensuring seamless integration into the property.
The Result
The successful completion of the adaptations marked a new chapter for Bridget as she moved into her fully accessible home. Bridget now navigates her living space with ease, utilising the wet room and having adequate space for any required support. Her quality of life has significantly improved, granting her newfound independence and comfort.
Reflecting on this journey, it’s clear that Bridget’s resilience and optimism were pivotal in overcoming her challenges. PLG’s role in facilitating this transformation was instrumental, providing Bridget with a home that supports her in living life to its fullest potential.
