David Stott, 88, a retired steelworker, and his wife Betty, 84, recently moved into a state-of-the-art accessible flat in the £17.5 million Charleston development - an innovative project delivering 66 highly adapted, sustainable homes for older people and those with additional support needs.

Developed by Blackwood Homes & Care, in collaboration with Bield and Hillcrest Homes, this community combines cutting-edge technology and accessibility to redefine independent living.

Before their move, David and Betty lived in a smaller flat where stairs and tight spaces made even basic tasks a challenge, despite the support of their three adult children and extended family. Betty’s health issues exacerbated the difficulties, leaving the couple increasingly isolated.

Since moving into their new adaptive Bield flat in November 2024, their quality of life has vastly improved.

“I feel like I’ve got my confidence back,” said Betty. “We’re able to do so much more now – I can get around the house with ease and even do things for myself again. Both David and I use walkers, it was a tight squeeze in our last flat, but now we can both move around and be in the same room.”

The flat’s advanced design includes rise-and-fall kitchen counters, electrically operated pocket doors and other features tailored to meet accessibility needs. It has also eased the workload of Betty’s care team, reducing her reliance from four carers to just one.

For their daughter Sharon, the move has brought peace of mind: “It’s such a relief knowing that my parents can live independently in a home that truly suits their needs.”

“My mum struggled to use the kitchen before, but now, with adjustable worktops, she can do everything herself. Seeing them play games together, go shopping on their own and host family gatherings again is amazing. The difference it’s made to their lives – and to all of ours – is incredible.”

Sharon added: “This year, for the first time in years, we were able to celebrate Boxing Day together as one big family. Their old home was so cramped that we had to split celebrations into two shifts.

“Now, we can all be together, and it’s been amazing for everyone to reconnect. The extra space and spare bedroom means that family can easily visit and stay comfortably through the night as needed. The move has also brought them out of their shells.

“They’re no longer isolated – they have friendly neighbours, they’re back shopping on their own and my mum now only needs one carer instead of four. It’s been life-changing.”

Surprisingly, this transformative lifestyle change has come at a modest cost increase of just £78 per month compared to their previous sheltered accommodation. 

Sharon noted: “It’s remarkable that such a life-changing home has come at such a modest increase in rent. For what they now have – the space, the independence and the quality of life – it’s been worth every penny.”

The Charleston development sets a new standard for accessible and sustainable housing in Scotland. Each home is equipped with solar panels and energy-efficient technology to ensure long-term affordability and environmental responsibility.

Tracey Howatt, director of customer experience at Bield, highlighted the broader mission: “We are thrilled to see how our homes have transformed lives like Betty and David’s. At Bield, we believe everyone deserves to live with dignity, confidence and independence.

“This development showcases our commitment to creating innovative, sustainable housing solutions that enhance lives. Good quality, adapted housing is not just about better homes - it’s about enabling older people to live independently for longer, reducing reliance on social care, and ensuring they can remain in their communities with the support they need. Investing in housing is investing in sustainable social care.”

With a welcoming atmosphere, accessible design, and advanced technology, the Charleston development offers more than just homes - it creates a vibrant and supportive community.

For Betty and David, their new home has been a turning point, enabling them to enjoy life together after 65 years of marriage, cooking, playing games and welcoming family with ease.

Betty summed up the experience: “It feels like a new chapter for us both.”