BALMORAL local, Katie Mutch, who suffers from cerebral palsy and is in a wheelchair has been very disappointed that independent housing choices are limited in rural areas and the waiting list for suitable accommodation is long.

Ms Mutch said that group homes are good for some people but are not suited to everyone, especially those with a disability.

“I myself have a partner and would like the freedom of having him stay over or eventually having the option of living together,” she said.

“We would like the option of choosing privacy as our relationship grows, as most people would.

“I currently live in a little town called Balmoral with my mother and elderly grandmother – mum works five days a week while also ensuring both our needs are taken care of.

“I have access to a personal support worker two days a week.”

Ms Mutch said that she attends a respite house in Hamilton three nights a week to give her some independence and this allows her to attend appointments, but it is only a short-term solution.

Ms Mutch’s partner, Lachlan Campbell, said that it affects them because they aren’t able to spend the time that they want to together.

“I’m hoping housing gets expanded just in more of an interest into permanent housing for those with disabilities and especially with the ageing population being able to have those care houses available as well so they can still live independently outside of nursing homes and aged care facilities,” he said.