Posted on: 21 July 2023
In June 2023 West Yorkshire Housing Partnership launched your home, your choice a new area wide campaign urging everyone to think about rightsizing sooner rather than later. Rightsizing means finding a home that’s right for you now and in the future. This might mean moving to a smaller home or somewhere on one level. It might mean moving near family or staying close to amenities. It could mean exploring supported living or retirement options.
As part of the your home, your choice campaign to get people talking about rightsizing we’ve published a series of three videos.
In the first video Brian and Penny talk about the reasons why they are looking to rightsize now that the children have left the family home. Although they love their home ideally they want somewhere smaller that's easier to manage and with amenities close by, less steep stairs and a downstairs loo. For Brian and Penny, it is important to talk about the future with friends and family to make informed choices as they get older.
Residents Caroline and Anthea talk about life at Stoney Garth, an independent living scheme in Wakefield and describe their reasons for rightsizing in the second video. It was the right time for Caroline who felt she couldn’t care for her husband, who is physically disabled, as well as she used to. Anthea says it was difficult looking after mum and made the move after coming along to an open day to find out more about the options available to her. Living at Stoney Garth means they can mix with other people in a welcoming and friendly environment. They both like the extra security too. Coffee mornings, bingo, gardening and group games are just some of the activities on offer.
In the third video, Willow Court residents say their quality of life has improved since moving to the housing with care scheme in Halifax. Carol explains how husband Ken has got his independence back, how much happier they are since making the move and would recommend rightsizing to anyone in a similar situation to them. Julie’s confidence has been given a much needed boost and with knit and natter groups, art classes, bingo, singing and quizzes there’s plenty of opportunities to socialise. Willow Court housing with care scheme is open to people aged 60 and over, are in the Calderdale area and who have an assessed need for care or support.
Choosing to rightsize doesn’t always mean moving somewhere smaller. It is about making sure the space you’re living in is right for your needs. It may mean moving, but it may also mean adapting your own home. Making the decision to rightsize can result in many benefits. It also means you have plenty of time to explore all options available to you. It’s never too soon to start thinking about a house that works for you.
Visit yourhome-yourchoice.co.uk to find resources and support to rightsize.