At Staffs Housing, our purpose is to create quality, affordable homes that people feel proud to live in. At West End Village, that purpose is reflected in the lives of residents like Julie and her aunty Lynn, whose story shows how village living can support independence, welcome families, and truly change lives for the better.
A move that brought peace of mind
Julie moved to West End Village 15 years ago because of her health. Living with arthritis, she wanted reassurance that support and care options would be available if she ever needed them.
“I moved here because of my health. Knowing there are care options available means I know this will be my home for as long as I want to live here.”
That reassurance allowed Julie to settle quickly and focus on enjoying everyday life.
“I haven’t got to worry about what’s around the corner, and that really gives me peace of mind.”
A home where family are always welcome
Before moving in, Julie and her aunty Lynn came to view the apartment together to see if it was right. Once Julie had moved in, Lynn visited regularly, spending time at the village, getting to know the community, and seeing first-hand how it supported Julie’s independence.
“When we came to view the apartment and the village for Julie, it was absolutely perfect for what she needed, and honestly, I could see myself living there too.”
Over time, those visits helped Lynn realise the village could offer her the same reassurance and quality of life. When a vacancy became available, she decided it was the right time to move in herself.
“When my health deteriorated a little and a vacancy came up, I knew it was time for me to move in.”
Living well, every day
Julie describes life at the village as comfortable, fulfilling, and supportive.
“It’s such a great place to live. You feel so safe and supported.”
She has embraced village life, taking part in activities and discovering new interests — including flower arranging.
“I attended the flower arranging session and I was hooked. Now I make the flowers for the reception desk every week.”
Having everything she needs close by has also helped Julie feel more content.
“Everything I could want or need is available to me here. I don’t have to go out unless I want to, and I still have my own space when I need it.”
Four generations, one place to call home
One of the things Julie and Lynn value most is how easy it is for family to visit and spend time together.
“We have four generations of our family who live and come to visit us here.”
Their family includes Julie, her aunt Lynn, Julie’s niece, and Julie’s great niece, with younger family members regularly visiting too.
“This is our home, so it’s lovely that our family can come and see us whenever they like.”
Julie also treasures the time spent with her great niece.
“Whenever she has an inset day at school, she comes to stay with us. The three of us are like thick as thieves, it’s lovely.”
A life changed for the better
Looking back, both Julie and Lynn agree that moving to West End Village has had a positive, lasting impact on their lives.
“It feels like just yesterday that we came to look at that apartment. Moving here has changed both of our lives for the better.”
For them, village living has meant independence with reassurance, a welcoming community, and a home where family is always part of everyday life.
Find out more
If you’d like to learn more about life at West End Village or explore shared ownership homes for over-55s, you can:
👉 View our available homes to buy: www.staffshousing.org.uk/buy
📧 Email: sharedownership@staffshousing.org.uk
📞 Call: 01782 744533 to arrange a visit
Discover how village living could support your independence, while keeping family close.
