Helping Dennis Find His Way Home
After the loss of his wife, Dennis found it increasingly difficult to stay in his current home. Managing the stairs alone had become a challenge, and ongoing anti-social behaviour from neighbours made things even harder. Wanting a fresh start, Dennis hoped to return to Scotland, where he had grown up but he wasn’t sure how to make the move happen.
That’s when he reached out to HOS for support.
Once Dennis spoke with our broker, he was able to think through the options that would help him settle back home. He felt that social or sheltered housing in a quieter, more rural area would suit him best. To get things moving, our broker connected Dennis with one of our Housing Buddies, who helped him complete applications to three housing associations: Bield, Trust, and Hanover.
We also encouraged Dennis to contact his former local authority in Scotland. With their guidance, he completed a housing assessment over the phone and soon after, he was offered temporary accommodation. This was a huge step forward and exactly the progress Dennis had been hoping for.
Dennis is now thrilled to be heading back to Scotland and is waiting for an offer of permanent housing. He told us that without HOS, he might never have contacted his old local council and could still be struggling to find a way home.
Although the journey isn’t quite finished, Dennis is relieved and excited to be taking the first steps toward rebuilding his life in a place that feels familiar and supportive.
Helping Erin Explore a Path to Home Ownership
After a relationship breakdown, Erin suddenly found herself needing to find somewhere new to live. With some savings put aside, she hoped that home ownership might be an option but she wasn’t sure where to start. So she decided to take the first step and contact HOS.
After speaking with our broker, Erin was quickly connected with a mortgage advisor so she could explore the LIFT Open Market Shared Equity Scheme. The advisor confirmed that a mortgage could be possible for her, and Erin went ahead with an application to the scheme, feeling hopeful about the next steps.
Unfortunately, her application was refused because she had previously owned a home. Unsure of what to do next, Erin turned back to HOS for guidance. After reviewing her situation together, we discovered that she still met one of the key eligibility requirements, meaning she was able to reapply.
With the help of HOS, Erin is now gathering the evidence she needs to show her eligibility. Once this information is ready, we’ll support her in sending it to the LIFT team in the hopes they will reconsider her application and allow her to progress.
While Erin is still uncertain about what the future holds, she feels reassured knowing she has support behind her. HOS will continue to stand by her as she works towards finding a safe, secure home through the option she feels is best for her.
Supporting Derek as He Plans His Move Back to Scotland
After relocating to England to live with family for extra support, Derek found that strained relationships were making his living situation difficult. This led him to think seriously about his long-term housing options and whether it might be time to return home to Scotland. Unsure of what steps to take, Derek got in touch with HOS to explore his choices.
After speaking with our broker, it became clear that sheltered housing would be the most suitable option for him. Derek hoped to settle in Glasgow and was open to considering any area of the city. With this in mind, our broker immediately began looking at available sheltered housing developments and encouraged Derek to start applying to various providers.
Working together, Derek completed several applications and identified developments he was particularly interested in. He is now continuing to work closely with our broker to contact these developments, with the aim of arranging visits so he can get a feel for each place in person.
Although Derek is still waiting to find the right property, he is reassured knowing he isn’t navigating this process alone. Our broker will continue supporting him every step of the way as he works toward securing sheltered housing and moving back to Scotland.
Without the help of HOS Derek may never have taken the steps needed to begin this journey home.
Helping Jasmin Take Her First Step Into Home Ownership
Jasmin first got in touch with us when she decided she was ready to buy her first home. She had been renting a first-floor flat but hoped to purchase a ground-floor property that would be more suitable for her needs. Unsure where to begin, she reached out to HOS for guidance.
After speaking with our broker, Jasmin learned about a range of home ownership options she could consider. As a first-time buyer, she was eligible for the LIFT Open Market Shared Equity Scheme, an option that immediately appealed to her and felt like a promising next step.
To help move things forward, her broker connected her with a financial advisor, who was able to secure an Agreement in Principle and support her through the LIFT application process. With this help, Jasmin successfully submitted her application to the scheme.
Jasmin has now been accepted onto the LIFT Scheme and is beginning the exciting process of searching for her very own home. Thanks to the guidance and support of our broker, she feels confident and supported as she takes this important step toward her housing future.