A unique approach to finding and adapting a home

Design for Independence offers bespoke, cost-effective housing occupational therapy.

People with catastrophic injuries have no ability to adapt themselves to the environment around them, unlike able-bodied people. Our pupils dilate for the amount of light around us, for example, or we stand on our toes to reach an object on a high shelf. We unpick problems and assess risks, often without realising we’re doing it.

But someone with life-changing injuries that cause sensory, cognitive or physical impairments is left restricted and inflexible. To be able to live as independently as possible, they need a tailor-made environment designed to overcome the complexities of their injuries. That’s why we focus on harnessing the abilities each individual still has – rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach.

Our designs are as unique as the care needs and rehabilitation goals of our clients. Design for Independence is led by an occupational therapist – so people with disabilities are front and centre of each and every project.

Property searches and adaptations are tailor-made to accommodate the specific requirements of our clients – adults and children with brain and spinal injuries, as well as amputees.

The Design for Independence experts have years of experience working with the construction industry and specialise in designing for sensory and cognitive impairments, not just physical disabilities. This enables the team to think outside the box and come up with unique solutions for even the most challenging cases, in the most restricted spaces.

PROPERTY SEARCH AND ADAPTATION

The first step is an in-depth understanding of what a client and their family need – not just now but in the long term. How do they use their living space and transfer from various pieces of equipment and furniture? Is space required for carers? What type of therapy will take place at home and what equipment is likely to be purchased to support that? What activities can they get involved in that will enrich their lives and improve their interaction with others?

These are all valuable clues to the size, location and configuration of the desired property – and what adaptations might be required to make it just right for each individual client. A house on a busy road, for example, could be dangerous for someone with cognitive impairment. If someone has vision problems, a home with plenty of natural light might be crucial. And if memory is the issue, intuitive kitchen design can help maintain an individual’s independence.

ONE-STOP SHOP

There are no finder’s fees to pay – and the Design for Independence service is exempt from VAT as it is completed by an occupational therapist. Once we understand an individual’s unique requirements, we can introduce an architect, structural engineer, quantity surveyor and builders to make it all possible. All work is then closely supervised, and we source all equipment fixtures and fittings. In the case of rental homes, our team ensures any adaptations don’t incur high reinstatement costs at the end of the tenancy. We also provide manual handling training for the care team when a client moves in.

Anava Baruch ACCOMMODATION EXPERT

Managing director Anava Baruch acts as an accommodation expert under part 35 of civil law. Her background in occupational therapy gives her a holistic view of a client’s accommodation needs.

Tel: 01799 588056 Email: info@designforindependence.co.uk Web: www.designforindependence.co.uk