teen’s thanks for life-changing home adaptations

A teenager from County Durham is enjoying a new sense of independence and dignity after a life-changing adaptation to his family home. 

Charlie lives with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA Type 2), a rare neuromuscular condition that affects the muscles used for movement and everyday tasks.  

The 15-year-old uses a wheelchair and requires significant personal care, much of which is provided by his mam, Helen. 

Following major spinal surgery two years ago — which saw him grow 15cm overnight — the bathroom in their bungalow no longer met his needs.  

Although landlord believe housing had previously adapted the space, the room had become too small and uncomfortable to use. For a time, Charlie had to rely on bed baths. 

Determined to improve his quality of life, believe housing worked closely with County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust and Durham County Council to assess what changes were needed. They then brought in trusted local contractor SBC Builders to carry out the work. 

The project involved moving a boiler to create more space, lowering the ceiling to help retain warmth, and transforming the bathroom into a fully accessible wet room and toilet. The result is a space that works for Charlie now and will continue to meet his needs in the future. 

This collaborative effort has made a real difference for Charlie and his family by enhancing his independence, comfort, and dignity at home. 

“It was quite difficult managing my personal hygiene before,” said Charlie.  

“Now it’s easier and more comfortable getting ready to go out, and I feel fresher and better about myself. It’s not just physically easier, it’s improved my mental health and confidence too.” 

Helen praised believe housing and SBC for their care, communication, and commitment to quality. 

She said: “They listened to us and allowed me to advocate for Charlie, which isn’t always the case.  

“The communication throughout was brilliant, and it really meant a lot to be heard. “Because they listened and always had Charlie’s best interests at heart, the work meets his needs now and into the future.” 

“Independent toileting, enjoying a shower, feeling good about getting ready to go out are things most people take for granted. To give Charlie that is incredible.” 

The work was completed in under two weeks, despite the scale of the job.  

Although believe housing offered the family a temporary home during the works, they found their own accommodation so they could stay closer to home, and SBC worked quickly and respectfully to minimise disruption. 

“We put the effort in for this lad,” said Jeff Cass, Contracts Manager at SBC.  

“We understood his needs and the genuine difference this work could make, so we moved heaven and earth to get it done quickly so he could feel the benefits straight away.” 

Jeff Horner, Major Adaptations Team Lead at believe housing, said the project was about doing the right thing at every step. 

“Numerous people across believe housing were involved in making sure we listened to the customer and got the right work done for Charlie. That includes choosing the right contractor and SBC really shared our ethos and worked hard to do the best for him. 

“We know that having the right home is vital for health and wellbeing, and we’re so pleased to hear how happy Charlie and Helen are with the result.” 

Helen added: “Everyone at believe housing and SBC was so thoughtful — the vocabulary they used, the relationship we built, and the respect they showed throughout really made a difference.  

“It’s important that other people in similar situations see that getting the help you need is possible. Even when it feels a long way off, keep going and have hope.”