For 30 years, Judy worked in the civil service, working for the Employment Service and its previous incarnations (the Employment Service is now a part of Jobcentre Plus).
Now retired, she lives with her husband Albert. Judy uses her wheelchair to propel herself around town, but problems began when they moved to a house with a steep concrete ramp leading up to their front door.
Albert suffered from polio in his youth, and the effects of the disease have become more marked over time, limiting the help he can provide Judy.
Furthermore, he's still in work, which means that in any case, Judy has no assistance in getting up the ramp, should she want to go out during the day.
While Judy managed to negotiate the ramp under her own steam, it was taking an increasing toll on her arms, and she suffered muscle pains as a result. This led to Judy becoming increasingly house-bound.
It became clear that something would have to be done; especially as Albert is finding it hard to push Judy up the ramp himself.
Judy applied to the Fund for help. We liaised closely with her local Occupational Therapist, and obtained quotes for a special lift, which would transport Judy safely from her doorstep, to ground level.
A grant was then made payable to the chosen contractor, and the work was completed last autumn. Judy is now able to leave the house without requiring outside assistance, and she’s looking forward to taking up her favourite hobby again:
"I am really pleased with the lift and still finding it hard to believe that I can access my garden independently," she says.
"I cannot thank the Fund enough for helping to make life easier for me. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart."
Many people, like Judy, are suffering. We are here to try and help – quickly and in complete confidence. If you have a problem, and think you need our help, don’t hesitate to call. For more information contact our Help and Advisory team on our Freephone: 0800 056 2424.
