Renting as a wheelchair user

Eloise_H96

Hi All! Anyone got tips on renting as a wheelchair user?

So far, I've NEVER found anywhere accessible to live in Cardiff. I've found a few places that I could just about make work, but it wasn't good. I lived in one "wheelchair accessible" studio apartment that was a joke - only one door was accessible, the pavements around it were awful, counters and everything full height, and it was severely damp with extreme black mold.

My current place isn't wheelchair accessible, but the letting agent lied and promised I could keep my wheelchair in the communal hall (I can now use other aids inside, but it's not ideal because I really need it sometimes) after pressuring to move out of my previous property months earlier than my lease ended. I couldn't find anywhere else, and when I got here they told me I couldn't keep it in the hall or they'd remove it and charge me.

When I speak with letting agents, if I mention that I'm a wheelchair user or anything about my disability, suddenly all my viewings are cancelled or new ones are full. Or, they'll only show me the worst properties they have, knowing I may be desperate. If I don't tell them, I run the risk of getting there and finding it to be unsuitable as you only get 10 minutes to view.

The councils occupational therapy won't allow ramps on shared entrances as it's a "fire hazard" for people who walk because they "might trip while evacuating". So, they're fine with me burning, trapped inside, because apparently it's impossible to walk on a well-made, low incline ramp. I've had ramps made privately with the landlords permission in the past, but it's expensive and I've had to move every year for 5 years. They just ask if I've "considered moving somewhere more suitable".

I'm on the council house list, but it can take years.

I've tried to find homes that are designed to be wheelchair accessible, but all I ever find is holiday accommodation, not housing!

I can't get a mortgage as I'm single on disability benefits.

I just want somewhere safe and suitable to live long term. I'm exhausted and out of options, and I'm living somewhere unsafe for my disability.

Everyone else I know locally who's a wheelchair user either owns their house or lives with their parents as adults (not an option for me).

Does anyone know how to find suitable housing as someone living independently? Also, are there any active campaigns for more accessible and affordable housing for mobility aid users or to change the ridiculous fire safety laws regarding disabled access? TIA!