A former TV actor whose life was turned upside down following a freak accident in the supermarket is looking ahead to an exciting new chapter in a home of her own – a dream which once felt completely out of her reach.
Jeni Williams, an actor who has had various roles on TV including in Coronation Street, Emmerdale and The Royal, fell whilst out shopping six years ago, injuring her spine.
Her rehabilitation has been long, and she credits the support she’s had from Hoyles Court - our independent living scheme in Radcliffe - as being key to her success.
“Overnight my life changed,” Jeni said.
“I’d gone from this busy person working three jobs to someone who relied on carers and struggled to get out of bed.
“I was in a privately rented home at the time and wasn’t getting any of the support I needed around making the place suitable for me.
“Then I heard about Hoyles Court – it changed everything for me. My occupational therapy team worked with the Irwell Valley Homes staff to get everything in place so quickly.
“The level access was a lifesaver and they also installed things like grab rails and supports in the bathroom. They got everything sorted out. It was such a relief and a huge amount of stress lifted when I moved in.”
Jeni has shared her story to highlight the support that independent living schemes like Hoyes Court provide, as we celebrate our 50th birthday.
We launched in May 1973 with just a handful of homes in Salford and now support more than 20,000 customers across Greater Manchester, including 11 independent living schemes.
The focus at these homes is on enabling residents aged 50 and over to live independently, whilst providing peace of mind there is support if needed through the scheme co-ordinator and a 24-hour alarm system. Communal lounges and gardens also help to overcome loneliness and isolation that some customers can experience.
Over her years at Hoyles Court Jeni has made a new life for herself at the scheme, forging new friendships and continuing her progress towards recovery.
The 56-year-old said: “There was certainly a transition period moving into this type of home, particularly as I am a bit younger than some of the other residents, but I soon found my place.
“It’s a lovely community – we all look out for each other and help one another. Having peace of mind there was someone there if I needed them has been reassuring too; you feel safe. There have been occasions where I’ve had a fall and needed to use the alarm system.
“When I arrived I wasn’t sure if that was me forever – at that point it wasn’t clear if I’d be able to live on my own again. I still live with numbness in my leg and foot and juggle various medications and therapies to manage my pain.
“But now I feel I’m able to move out on my own again. This is a huge thing for me and means such a lot. I’ve got two grandsons and they will soon be able to come and stay with grandma again which is so exciting for them and for me!
“I really don’t think I’d be in this position if it wasn’t for the support I’ve had from Hoyles Court and Irwell Valley Homes.
“It’s got me back on my feet. It’s saved me. For that, I’m so grateful.”
Cath Gorman, our Independent Living Manager, said: “We’re so proud of the amazing progress Jeni has made during her time at Hoyles Court and delighted we could play a part in her recovery. I know everyone at the scheme will miss her enormously, but we’re all very excited for her and what the future holds.
“For 50 years Irwell Valley Homes has made it our mission to enable people to live well in their homes and communities – by providing safe, quality and affordable homes and services. Jeni’s experience at Hoyles Court show this in action and highlight the value and valuable role independent living schemes can play – both in supporting individuals and in contributing towards the wider health and social care landscape.”