Chris's story

Chris was born with a hearing and visual impairment and mild cerebral palsy. None of this has stopped him however from working and owning a home of his own.

At the age of 26 Chris, who was then working for the county council as a part-time administrator, decided he was ready for more independent living. After discussing it with his parents his mum did some research and came across a number of housing options including HOLD (home ownership for people with long term disabilities).

Chris chose his flat because it was in a great location close to town. He can walk everywhere and it’s quite close to where his parent’s live. He said: “I have my independence and I can do the things I want when I want.”

Chris likes to play and listen to music. He’s a keen drummer and has an electronic set at home and each week he makes a lot more noise in his weekly percussion group.

Although Chris works part-time he still finds time to volunteer with Advance. Recently he has joined as a customer member of the Complaints and Compliments Panel bringing the customer perspective to that committee.

Chris also joined the Advance Customer Partnership last year.

Chris added: “I enjoy the two roles I volunteer for and they have given me more confidence. I have also gained confidence in independent travel using the rail network to get to meetings.”

Chris’s Mum and Dad say: “We are so happy to have found the HOLD Scheme for Christopher to be able to achieve his dream, of owning his own home. We are also very proud of Chris, to have coped with so many different challenges whilst living on his own and he has excelled all of our expectations. We would also like to thank Advance for supporting our son Chris throughout the years as a Shared Owner.”

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