Uphill struggle to move to a smaller property

JayHarold
JayHarold Online Community Member Posts: 3 Listener
Hello there, I am new to the community.  I have a progressive lung disorder called aspergillus, Asthma, Addisons Disease, Osteoporosis, Angina and frequent lung blood clots and Esophageal ulcers.  At the age of 58 I was retired on the grounds of ill health three years ago from a job I loved.  I am really struggling at the moment, having got into debt by living on credit cards.  I receive lower rate PIP, won my appeal against the DWP for ESA (horrendeous experience) and now face an uphill struggle to move to a smaller property (I am in social housing).  Can anyone advise me?  I have found a mutual exchange to a smaller house with one less bedroom but have found that my housing association do not assist financially with downsizing and neither does my local council.  As a move will cost in the region of £1,000, I am now stuck in the difficult position of being unable to afford to move but I am penalised for having a spare bedroom.  Can anyone advise me please?  Many thanks,  Jay

Comments

  • WheelyRachel
    WheelyRachel Online Community Member Posts: 63 Contributor
    Have you a local disability advice centre if so they should be able to provide charity contacts that could help you.
  • JayHarold
    JayHarold Online Community Member Posts: 3 Listener
    Thanks for that - I'll check it out.

    Jay
  • WheelyRachel
    WheelyRachel Online Community Member Posts: 63 Contributor
    Good luck hope their useful. Failing that maybe shelter may be of help too
  • Sam_Alumni
    Sam_Alumni Scope alumni Posts: 7,602 Championing
    Welcome to the community @JayHarold you can call the helpline on 0808 800 3333 if you need more support and information.

    Is there any way you can rope in friends and family to help with a move?
  • JayHarold
    JayHarold Online Community Member Posts: 3 Listener
    Hi there, no, my daughter has 4 young children under 8 and my other daughter has mental health issues.  Since falling ill and moving to Devon I have become increasingly isolated and my friends all live over 200 miles away now.

    Thanks,

    jay
  • Sam_Alumni
    Sam_Alumni Scope alumni Posts: 7,602 Championing
    It sounds like such a tough time @JayHarold - I wonder if there are any grants available?  We have a Grant Search facility here. 

    There's also a list of support links in the housing section.

    Best of luck to you