ROBERT:  My care worker was the person who suggested contacting the DPHS(F).  I was living in a group tenancy after the closure of Glen Lomond at Kinesswood.  Four of us moved into a flat then there were only two of us left in the big flat and I didn’t want to end up there myself.  It was too big to keep tidy and clean.  I wanted my own place where my support workers could come.

JACKIE:  Robert’s support worker initially contacted us about Robert’s need for alternative housing and his requirement to stay in the same area as he knew his way around there.  Moving areas would have meant a lot of new things to learn, especially with this sight impairment.  We applied to several housing providers and knew that there was some regeneration work going on in the town so got him on the waiting list for that.  We had to point out that Robert needed support workers day and night and needed more than one bedroom.  We made sure the housing provider  knew about Robert’s  sight impairment and how important it was to stay in the same area. We put particular emphasis on what improvements there would be to Robert’s life to have his own property in that area.

ROBERT:  I got a letter saying I was getting an interview about a new house and my care worker was there to make sure that they knew how much I needed it.  When I got the letter to say I’d be getting a brand new house – a bungalow, I was very excited and pleased.  So was my care worker.

JACKIE:  Christine, Robert’s care worker was a key person to work in partnership with.  She knew Robert’s needs and was careful to make sure that the housing provider knew exactly what he needed.  We both spoke to each other when the offer was made – it was a very happy day.  Colin, from Ore Valley called me to tell me about the Letter of Offer and to make sure that it was responded to within the correct timeframe.  I then contacted Christine and she ensured  that the letter of acceptance went back.  Robert’s workers had already walked out with Robert to show him where the house would be built.  They continued with this preparation up until the completion date.

ROBERT:  Jackie asked if she can come and visit me when I get in my new bungalow and I said of course.  I’m going to be very happy to show everyone around my brand new house.  I can’t wait.  I said she can come for the day if she wants.     

Question:  What do you like best about your new house Robert?  Answer:  Everything!

ROUTE FOLLOWED FOR ROBERT’S HOUSING:

Partnership with Robert:  Careworker and DPHS(F)

Application Form:  DPHS(F) and Careworker

Referrals to Housing Providers :  x 3 DPHS(F)

Knowledge of new-build plans/Enquiry/Application Made:  DPHS(F)

Offer from developer:  OVHA to client

Agencies involved:  DPHS(F); Fife Council Social Work Service; OVHA.

Timescale involved:  1^st enquiry to DPHS(F) 14.06.05 ;  Application to OVHA along with other applications 05.08.05;  Offer made by OVHA 10.02.06; moved in May 2006.

Crucial partnership work in Robert’s case was his key support worker,DPHS(F) worker and Housing Officer at Ore Valley.