The positive impact of accessible housing | #ForAccessibleHomes News

I first became aware of Habinteg Housing Association in the summer of 1988. I had been invited to attend an interview for the post of Director of Scottish Spastics Housing Association. I still cringe at that name.

What many people don't know is that Habinteg itself was born out of the Spastics Society in England (now Scope) but unlike its wee Scottish cousin, from day one, Habinteg was a pioneer in the field of integrated Housing. I make no apology for admitting that on being appointed to the post with the renamed Horizon Housing Association in Scotland, I unashamedly pursued the Habinteg model of integrated housing.

It has been both moving and humbling to see the positive impact that affordable accessible housing can have on the lives of profoundly disabled people, enabling them to live on equal terms with their neighbours. I also passionately believe that removing physical barriers experienced by disabled people can contribute to the removal of other less tangible barriers in areas such as education and employment.

Now, almost 30 years after hearing of Habinteg's inspirational work, my period as a Board Member comes to an end, my support for the #ForAccessibleHomes campaign however remains undiminished.

For more information on supporting our #ForAccessibleHomes Day of Action on Friday 8 September visit our page for supporters. You can support the campaign on social media by signing up to our Thunderclap.

Jim Watt is a housing sector professional with over 20 years' experience at Chief Officer level. He joined the Board of Habinteg following his retirement from the position of Chief Executive at Horizon Housing Association, a sister organisation of Habinteg operating in Scotland.