Are granny annexes suitable for disabled people? Especially those with mobility problems or wheelchair users? Let’s look at some of the reasons why a granny annexe might be a good choice for someone with a disability. iHUS make granny annexe disabled access easy.
What is a Granny Annexe?
The term granny annexe is commonly used to describe a one-story dwelling, situated on the grounds of another property. Although ‘granny annexe’ may suggest the buildings are for, well, grannies, they are suitable for a wide range of people with different needs.
Annexes are single story, one or two bedroomed dwellings that contain everything you would expect to find in a bungalow or house.
There’re often more spacious than you might imagine too – just take a look at our core annexe range.
With a fully equipped kitchen, bathroom and lounge area, a granny annexe contains everything you need to live comfortably.
Are Granny Annexes Suitable for Disabled People?
A granny annexe is the ideal living situation for many people with disabilities. Here are some reasons a disabled person may choose to live in an annexe.
Ease getting around
As granny annexes are single story, they are ideal for wheelchair users or people with mobility issues who may not be able to tackle stairs. Having everything on the ground floor means that you can access every room in your home with ease. Our annexes all have an open plan, free-flowing interiors that make them easy to get around.
Closer to relatives
Granny annexes are often situated in a family members garden, meaning that you will always have your family on standby. This is incredibly useful for anyone who is semi-independent; people who need help with some tasks, cooking, for example, but can manage other tasks.
Promotes independence
Living in a granny annexe can help promote independence by giving you the opportunity to experience living on your own. The beauty is, that you can still have your private space and live independently but you are only a stone throw away from help should you need it.
Custom design
Our granny annexes come with a range of features that can be customised and adapted to suit your needs. Aside from making your annexe look great, some are very practical for those with a disability – for example, we can add ramps and decking around the outside of your annexe to enable easy access in a wheelchair. We also install wet rooms that mean you can shower on your own.
Granny Annexe Disabled Access
As mentioned, accessibility is the key benefit of choosing an annexe for your home.
In the UK, there is a shortage of good housing stock for people with disabilities. A report in the Telegraph last year about accessible homes quoted statistics from Habinteg Housing Association, that says only seven per cent of UK housing is deemed suitable for the 1.8 million disabled people needing wheelchair-accessible homes.
An annexe might prove to be a good investment for anyone looking to stay close to home, live independently and have their access needs met.
Get in Touch with iHUS
If an annexe with disabled access is something you are considering, then please get in touch and a member of our team will be happy to help with any questions you may have.
