How DHG Services Helped a Staffordshire Couple Stay in the Home They Love Without Moving

 

Case Study: How We Helped a Staffordshire Couple Avoid Moving House With a Complete Accessibility Solution

Introduction

For many homeowners, there comes a point when stairs become more than just an inconvenience. What was once a simple daily routine can gradually become a source of anxiety, frustration, and even danger. Unfortunately, when mobility challenges begin to affect access to different parts of the home, many people feel they only have two options: move house or significantly alter their lifestyle.

At DHG Services, we believe there is often a better solution.

As specialists in stairlifts, home lifts, through-floor lifts, and accessibility solutions throughout Staffordshire and the wider UK, we regularly help customers regain independence while remaining in the homes they love. This case study highlights one such project, where a Staffordshire couple were considering selling their family home due to increasing mobility concerns.

After a detailed assessment and consultation process, we helped them identify the most suitable accessibility solution for both their immediate and long-term needs. The project involved evaluating several options, including a stairlift, a through-floor lift, and ultimately a Stiltz home lift.

The result was a life-changing installation that allowed the couple to continue enjoying their home safely, comfortably, and independently.

The Challenge

John and Margaret (names changed for privacy) had lived in their detached Staffordshire home for more than 30 years.

The property held decades of memories. They had raised their children there, welcomed grandchildren, and invested heavily in maintaining and improving the house over the years. Like many homeowners approaching retirement age, they had always assumed they would remain in the property indefinitely.

However, mobility challenges began to change their perspective.

John had developed arthritis in both knees, making it increasingly painful to climb stairs. Margaret had recently undergone hip replacement surgery and was finding recovery slower than expected. Although both remained active and independent, they were becoming increasingly concerned about the long-term practicality of their home.

The staircase had become a daily obstacle.

Tasks that were once routine were now physically demanding. Carrying laundry upstairs, accessing bedrooms, and moving between floors required significant effort and caused discomfort.

More importantly, they were worried about falls.

Like many people experiencing mobility issues, they had started discussing the possibility of moving to a bungalow or single-storey property. However, the emotional and financial implications of moving house were considerable.

Property prices, moving costs, legal fees, stamp duty, and the stress of leaving a beloved family home all weighed heavily on their minds.

Before making a final decision, they decided to explore whether an accessibility solution could allow them to remain in the property safely.

This is when they contacted DHG Services.

Initial Consultation

Every accessibility project begins with a conversation.

Rather than immediately recommending a particular product, our team focuses on understanding the customer's current situation, future requirements, property layout, and lifestyle.

During our initial consultation, we discussed:

  • Current mobility challenges
  • Medical considerations
  • Daily routines
  • Areas of concern within the home
  • Future mobility expectations
  • Budget considerations
  • Long-term plans

It quickly became apparent that the couple needed more than a short-term fix.

While a simple mobility solution may have addressed their immediate concerns, we wanted to ensure any recommendation would continue supporting them for many years to come.

Following the consultation, we arranged a comprehensive home survey.

The Home Assessment Process

One of the key reasons DHG Services is trusted across Staffordshire is our detailed assessment process.

No two homes are identical.

Likewise, no two customers have identical mobility requirements.

During the survey, our accessibility specialists carefully examined:

  • Staircase dimensions
  • Landing configurations
  • Hallway space
  • Structural considerations
  • Room layouts
  • Electrical requirements
  • Future accessibility needs

The staircase itself was relatively wide and would comfortably accommodate several stairlift models.

However, the assessment revealed something important.

Although a stairlift could address the immediate issue of accessing the first floor, it might not be the ideal long-term solution.

Given the progressive nature of arthritis and age-related mobility decline, we wanted to explore options that would continue meeting their needs in the future.

This led to a detailed discussion comparing stairlifts, through-floor lifts, and domestic home lifts.

Considering a Stairlift

For many customers, a stairlift is the perfect accessibility solution.

Modern stairlifts are reliable, affordable, quick to install, and highly effective.

Benefits include:

  • Lower initial investment
  • Fast installation
  • Minimal disruption
  • Proven reliability
  • Suitable for many staircase designs

For John and Margaret's property, a straight stairlift could have been installed quickly and efficiently.

We discussed several options and demonstrated how modern stairlifts offer features such as:

  • Fold-away seats
  • Safety sensors
  • Swivel seats
  • Remote controls
  • Battery backup systems

From a practical perspective, a stairlift would certainly have solved the challenge of climbing stairs.

However, the couple raised several concerns.

Margaret worried about future mobility deterioration.

John expressed concerns about transferring onto the stairlift seat if his arthritis worsened.

They also felt a stairlift would serve as a mobility aid rather than a complete future-proofing solution.

This prompted us to explore alternative options.

Exploring Through-Floor Lifts

The next option considered was a through-floor lift.

Through-floor lifts are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners looking for a long-term accessibility solution.

Unlike stairlifts, which travel along the staircase, through-floor lifts move vertically between floors through a carefully designed aperture.

Benefits include:

  • Wheelchair accessibility

  • Standing access

  • Greater independence

  • Minimal reliance on stair usage

  • Long-term suitability

We identified a potential location between the dining room and an upstairs bedroom.

The layout was suitable, and installation was technically feasible.

The couple were impressed by the concept.

However, after further discussions, several considerations emerged.

The through-floor lift would require:

  • More extensive building work
  • Greater structural alterations
  • Additional space allocation
  • More noticeable room modifications

Although still a viable solution, the couple hoped for an option that combined accessibility with a more contemporary aesthetic.

This led to the introduction of a Stiltz home lift.

Why We Recommended a Stiltz Home Lift

When we demonstrated the Stiltz home lift concept, the couple immediately recognised its advantages.

Stiltz lifts have transformed the domestic lift market by providing an elegant, compact, and highly practical accessibility solution.

Unlike traditional lifts, Stiltz home lifts:

  • Do not require a shaft

  • Do not require a machine room

  • Use a self-supporting structure

  • Occupy minimal floor space

  • Blend seamlessly into modern homes

For John and Margaret's property, the Stiltz lift offered the ideal balance between functionality and aesthetics.

It would provide:

  • Comfortable seated travel

  • Easy access between floors
  • Long-term accessibility
  • Minimal structural disruption
  • Future-proofing for changing mobility needs

Most importantly, it would allow them to remain in the property for many years without worrying about stairs.

After reviewing all options, the couple decided that the Stiltz home lift represented the best overall investment.

Cost Considerations

One of the most common questions we receive involves costs.

Naturally, every installation is different.

Factors influencing pricing include:

  • Property layout
  • Lift model
  • Installation requirements
  • Building modifications
  • Electrical works
  • Finishing requirements

During consultations, we always provide transparent guidance regarding costs and value.

For John and Margaret, the decision was not solely based on initial expenditure.

They considered:

  • Moving costs
  • Estate agent fees
  • Solicitor fees
  • Stamp duty
  • Property adaptation expenses
  • Future accessibility needs

When compared against the true cost of moving home, the Stiltz lift represented excellent value.

More importantly, it enabled them to remain in a property they genuinely loved.

Disabled Facilities Grant Discussion

We also discussed potential funding opportunities.

Many homeowners are unaware that financial assistance may be available through local authorities.

The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) can help eligible applicants fund adaptations that improve accessibility within their home.

Depending on circumstances, grants may contribute towards:

We provided guidance on the application process and explained how local authority assessments typically work.

Although grant eligibility varies, ensuring customers understand available support forms an important part of our service.

Planning the Installation

Once the Stiltz lift had been selected, detailed planning began.

Our installation team carried out precise measurements and prepared a full installation schedule.

Key considerations included:

  • Lift positioning
  • Structural calculations
  • Electrical requirements
  • Flooring modifications
  • Finishing details

The aim was to minimise disruption while ensuring the highest installation standards.

Throughout the process, the couple remained fully informed and involved in every decision.

Property Modifications

One reason Stiltz lifts are so popular is the relatively limited structural work required.

Compared to many traditional lift systems, installation can often be completed with minimal alterations.

For this project, modifications included:

  • Creating the lift aperture
  • Reinforcing relevant areas
  • Installing electrical connections
  • Finishing floor edges
  • Decorating affected surfaces

The overall impact on the property was remarkably small.

The lift integrated naturally into the home's existing layout.

Visitors often assume it was part of the original design.

Installation Day

Our experienced installation team arrived as scheduled and began work immediately.

Every project is carefully managed to maintain safety, cleanliness, and efficiency.

The installation process involved:

  • Site preparation
  • Structural works
  • Lift assembly
  • Electrical connections
  • Testing and commissioning
  • Customer demonstration

The team worked closely with the homeowners throughout the process.

By completion, the lift was fully operational and ready for use.

The Immediate Impact

The difference was immediate.

For the first time in years, both homeowners could move between floors without discomfort, anxiety, or assistance.

Bedrooms became easily accessible again.

Laundry tasks became straightforward.

Night-time bathroom visits no longer involved navigating stairs.

Most importantly, the fear of falling was significantly reduced.

The lift restored confidence that had gradually diminished over time.

Long-Term Benefits

The installation provided several long-term advantages.

Independence

The couple maintained complete control over their daily routine.

Safety

The risk associated with stair usage was dramatically reduced.

Property Retention

They remained in the home they loved.

Future-Proofing

The lift would continue supporting them as mobility requirements evolved.

Increased Comfort

Daily activities became easier and less physically demanding.

Peace of Mind

Family members gained reassurance knowing their parents could safely access all areas of the property.

Customer Testimonial

"We honestly thought moving house was our only option. The stairs had become a daily challenge, and we were worried about what the future would look like. DHG Services took the time to understand our situation and explain every available option. We never felt pressured into making a decision.

The Stiltz lift has completely transformed how we use our home. It looks fantastic, it's easy to use, and most importantly, it means we can stay in the house we love. The entire team was professional, friendly, and supportive from start to finish. We couldn't be happier with the result."

— John and Margaret, Staffordshire

Why This Project Highlights the Importance of Personalised Accessibility Solutions

One of the most important lessons from this project is that no single accessibility product is right for everyone.

Some customers benefit most from:

The best solution depends entirely on:

  • Property design
  • Budget
  • Current mobility
  • Future mobility
  • Personal preferences

By evaluating every option rather than promoting a single product, DHG Services ensures customers receive genuinely tailored advice.

Supporting Homeowners Across Staffordshire and Beyond

This project is just one example of how DHG Services helps people remain independent within their own homes.

We provide:

  • Stairlifts in Stafford
  • Stairlifts throughout Staffordshire
  • Home lifts in Stafford
  • Through-floor lifts across Staffordshire
  • Stiltz lift installations
  • Domestic lift solutions
  • Accessibility assessments
  • Ongoing servicing and maintenance

Our mission is simple: help people stay safe, independent, and comfortable in the homes they love.

Conclusion

For John and Margaret, the decision to contact DHG Services changed everything.

What began as a concern about mobility and the possibility of moving house became an opportunity to future-proof their home and regain confidence.

Through a detailed assessment process, careful consideration of multiple accessibility solutions, and professional installation of a Stiltz home lift, they achieved exactly what they hoped for: the ability to remain in their beloved Staffordshire home.

For homeowners facing similar challenges, there are often more options available than they realise.

Whether you're considering a stairlift, through-floor lift, or home lift, the key is finding a solution tailored to your property, lifestyle, and future needs.

At DHG Services, we're proud to help homeowners throughout Staffordshire and across the UK discover the accessibility solutions that make independent living possible for years to come.

Location: Stafford, UK

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