Jayne’s on cloud nine in her new whare

After suffering life-changing injuries in a serious car accident, Jayne needed a home with wheelchair access and space for her healthcare equipment.

Before, the family of four – Jayne, Wiremu and their teenage sons – had been staying in a drafty garage belonging to extended family as they couldn’t find a rental with wheelchair access.

“When we were shown this place, we were like, ‘Oh my gosh! This is amazing!’’ recalls Jayne’s partner, Wiremu. “It’s such a far cry from the conditions we were living in. We feel incredibly fortunate.”

In the family’s new home, there’s space to comfortably accommodate Jayne’s “smart bed” – a bed that can self-adjust to users’ needs - and her bathroom is designed for wheelchair users.

Although her accident left her unable to walk or talk, she can communicate using hi-tech aids, and Wiremu is a skilled interpreter. He’s also taken on responsibility for Jayne’s 24-7 care.

“Moving here has improved all our lives exponentially. It’s like night and day from where we were to where we are, like being on another planet. The boys have their own personal spaces and Jayne can do so much more.”

The open-plan living spaces are easy for Jayne to navigate, and the entrance and garden access is flat and smooth. At last, she can go out on her own.

“It’s so nice for Jayne to have her own space without the boys bowling in and out all day. There are no drafts or roller door going up and down all day which is much better for Jayne’s health.”

“We are so grateful and the change in our lives is unbelievable. We all have what we need and it’s a great basis for us to move forward as a family. “Says 17-year-old Trinity: “I love having my own room and it’s good to see Mum looking a lot happier. Life is 100% better for us now.”