Developing an online accessible housing channel | Latest news

Habinteg have joined forces with Homefinder UK to pilot a new online accessible housing channel. The pilot focuses on wheelchair accessible homes within the social housing sector.

An expert steering group was set up last year to oversee the project.  As well as representatives from Habinteg and Homefinder UK, the group includes Tanvi Vyas and Millie Hawes, who are both wheelchair users. 

Leading accessible housing occupational therapist, Jacquel Runnalls, also sits on the group, together with the National Housing Federation.  

Following a survey and focus group last year, views were sought from wheelchair users on the most helpful information to use online when looking for an accessible home. This included photos, floorplans and key information on bathrooms, kitchens and whether the home has level access. The use of simple language to describe accessibility was another key priority. 

This helpful information is being included as part of a simple checklist which is in development. The group now is working with housing associations who have come forward as trailblazers to test out the checklist. 

This information will be displayed as part of Homefinder UK’s ‘Accessible Now’ online channel in order to help more wheelchair users find accessible homes that meet their needs.

As the project develops through the pilot phase, we are keen to hear from more housing associations and housing leads:  please do get in touch with Nic Bungay nbungay@habinteg.org.uk to keep up to date with the project.

Read more about the project in Inside Housing magazine's article The Twilight Zone of accessible housing provision.