One of the things that helps make a home is community, and that’s something Valarie is glad to have at Fewston Court.

Valarie moved into her home last August after losing her twin sister, and before she knew it, she had the keys in hand and was settling into her new surroundings.

“When I moved in, I was dealing with the loss of my dear sister. She used to live around the corner from me, where I used to live. I saw her all the time; she was absolutely lovely.

“We were identical twins. In appearance and personality, too. She could ring me up, and we’d have been thinking about the same thing.”

“I’ve been here 6 months now, and I’m loving it. It’s clean, it’s homely, it’s done wonders for me and my mental health.

“Moving into the home was a quick process. My Neighbourhood Officer, Lisa, rang me to say that a home had become available and I was next on the list. I said I wanted it straight away. Once it was ready, I viewed it and signed for it the same day.”

Strong community

“I lived at my previous home for 41 years, but once my sister passed away, I didn’t really enjoy it there anymore; no one spoke to each other, and I didn’t feel always feel safe. So I knew I needed a change, a fresh start somewhere different.

“The neighbours are lovely. We’re a proper little community. We do bingo together a couple of times a week. On Fridays, we have a food fuddle and bring our own bits to share. I enjoy spending time with them; it’s really helped me.

“Each day gets better being here. I’m getting used to going out of my flat. I’m feeling more settled. My family are over the moon about me living here and they don’t have to worry about me.

“I don’t go to bed at night worrying about things anymore.”

Beautiful gardens

“The gardens at Fewston Court are beautiful – the gardeners do a wonderful job. I came home in a taxi recently, and even the driver complimented where I live. He said, ” Wow, what beautiful gardens.”

“I’m looking forward to sitting outside here with my neighbours in the summer.”

Neighbourhood Officer, Lisa says, “It’s this part of the job that I find most rewarding as we’re helping people make a home and it can be life changing.”