Worthing pensioner a ‘virtual prisoner’ in his own home as arthritis worsens

Chris Geraghty’s condition has become so severe he is unable to walk any significant distances unassisted, so in June he asked the housing association for a shed in which to store a scooter.

Southern Housing officials visited, he said, agreed one was needed in the Victoria Road block and ‘led him to believe’ one would be forthcoming.

But soon after, the 70-year-old was told the company had been quoted £17,000 for a shed so one could not be built until at least next year.

“I was so deflated,” said Chris, who is retired and lives alone.

“I’ve been made a virtual prisoner in my own home. This scooter for me would have been a lifesaver, but this has me feeling really low, really depressed. It’s really getting me down.”

To make matters worse, Chris had already put down a £200 deposit on a mobility scooter, although he conceded he should have waited until he had confirmation of the shed in writing.

Unable to travel any long distances alone, Chris’ brother has been travelling from Bognor Regis to do his shopping for him, which he said makes him feel guilty.

He has also had to cancel his membership at Splashpoint swimming pool in Brighton Road.

Swimming was ‘his life’, he said, but being unable to get to the pool has robbed him of its physical and mental benefits.

His severe arthritis – which has been worsening for 12 months – meant he had already had to stop going to the gym, but swimming was his last place of sanctuary.

Aside from feeling misled by his first meeting with surveyors, Chris questioned how the housing association came to a quote of £17,000 for ‘a wooden shed’.

A spokesman for Southern Housing said: “We are currently exploring the options in the hope of providing a suitable, secure facility that will benefit the whole scheme not just one individual.

“As we explained when the suggestion was first raised, allocating a suitable location, confirming any necessary permissions, budget and other requirements such as charging points, takes time.

“We will continue to work with residents on this matter.”