For several years, St Monica Trust has supported We Care Home Improvements through funding that enables older people on low incomes to remain safe, secure and independent in their own homes.
The funding helps provide essential repairs and adaptations that many homeowners would otherwise be unable to afford. From urgent electrical and plumbing repairs to major structural work, this support prevents homes from becoming unsafe and helps older people continue living independently for longer.
The impact is clear. Clients' independence and sense of security are assessed before and after works are completed, with results consistently showing significant improvements. By addressing serious hazards and repairing deteriorating homes, We Care Home Improvements is helping to improve well-being, reduce anxiety and create safer living environments for older people across the region.
A safer home and peace of mind
One homeowner in his late 70s was living with a dangerous electrical system in his Bath home. Disabled and on a low income, he faced ongoing risks from faulty wiring that caused loud electrical faults whenever the breaker was reset. Exposed cables also created a serious trip hazard.
The work involved rewiring the lounge and back-room circuits and installing a new consumer unit. The £2,200 project was funded through a combination of a BANES Urgent Support Grant, support from the Dolphin Society and a contribution from the St Monica Trust Independent at Home Fund.
Reflecting on the support he received, he said:
-
It was a huge panacea. The electric just blew out and it was devastating. Having you and your splendid team on our side was wonderful. I felt very relaxed after being very worried. So it was actually very therapeutic. “ ”
The repairs removed a significant fire risk, improved safety within the home and gave him reassurance that his home was secure once again.
Protecting a home from years of deterioration
Another couple, both in their 70s and living on a low income, faced increasingly severe problems with the roof of their home. Years of deterioration had left it in a poor condition, with rainwater leaking through the walls and into the bedrooms. During periods of heavy rainfall, buckets had to be placed in the bedroom to collect water.
The couple were unable to carry out repairs themselves due to health conditions. Mrs B has high blood pressure and has experienced repeated falls requiring hospital treatment, while Mr B lives with osteoarthritis, diabetes and long-standing mobility difficulties that make physical work unsafe.
A major roof repair project, costing £8,580, was managed by We Care Home Improvements. The couple contributed towards the cost, with the remainder funded through a local authority grant, the St Monica Trust Independent at Home Fund and other charitable sources.
The work included extensive roof repairs and the installation of insulation, transforming both the safety and comfort of the home.
Mrs B said:
-
The new roof means we can sleep properly knowing our home is safe. We are beyond pleased. It's fantastic. “ ”
Creating lasting impact
These stories demonstrate how charitable contributions can unlock larger packages of support and deliver life-changing outcomes. Through its partnership with St Monica Trust, We Care Home Improvements continues to ensure that older people can live safely, confidently and independently in the homes they love, improving both physical living conditions and overall well-being.