Valerie and her husband used to live in a corporation flat but when things there started going downhill, they turned to Northern Counties for help. “It was great when we first moved into that flat but a lot of young people moved in which was fine at first but then there got to be loads of rough sorts, taking and dealing drugs – I couldn’t sleep at night for worrying about it – I said to my husband ‘I hate this  - I’ve got to get out’. “

“We applied to Northern Counties and we got this flat in September 2003. We’ve been here three years now and we feel much safer – it really is marvellous!”

Valerie’s kitchen has recently been given a makeover by Northern Counties. “The kitchen used to be dark green but now it is a lot brighter. We didn’t want the hassle of a full new kitchen but Northern Counties were really accommodating and gave us the choice. In the end we just got new work tops and cupboard doors.

“The contractor who did the work was here from Monday to Friday and worked really hard. He really was marvellous - very pleasant indeed. I think it is great that Northern Counties put so much emphasis on getting decent contractors to do their improvements.”  

Find out more about how Northern Counties are really making a difference.