Hightown has created a new group, named ‘Thriving Together’, for residents with lived experience of disability to share insights and ensure housing services are accessible, inclusive and responsive to residents’ needs.
The group will provide feedback on our resident services, highlighting what works well, identifying barriers and suggesting areas for improvement. They will also scrutinise various service areas and review accessibility and inclusivity from their perspective as well as considering disabilities that may affect other residents.
During their first meeting, the Thriving Together’ group completed two activities.
1. How accessible is Hightown House?
Walking around Hightown’s central office, the group assessed the accessibility and inclusivity of the building. Their recommendations have been passed on to Hightown’s Premises team to consider making improvements.
2. Sharing insights – let's build a house
Building a house from Lego provided a talking point for the group to discuss what is important to consider for a home to be accessible and to make life easier for someone with a disability.
The next meeting will take place on Wednesday 16 July at 6pm - 8pm.
As part of our ongoing commitment to accessibility and inclusion, we're introducing new measures to better support all our residents.
Improved signage at reception
New disabled access signs will soon be installed at our reception desk. These signs are designed to make it easier for wheelchair users to get the assistance they need quickly and comfortably.
Deaf awareness training for staff
We're also organising deaf awareness training for all members of staff who interact with residents. This training will help our staff better understand the experiences of deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals and learn practical ways to communicate more clearly and respectfully.
These initiatives are part of our broader effort to create a welcoming environment where every resident feels seen, heard and supported.
If you have a disability and are interested in joining the Thriving Together group, please email involve@hightownha.org.uk
