14/04/2021
Lisa Bajada has lived in Tower Hamlets all of her life, including in Poplar’s Aberfeldy Estate, Stepney and Bow. She and her son recently moved from a one-bedroom, second floor home in a block of flats near Roman Road to a two-bedroom, ground floor flat with a garden at Mollis House. This new development, part of Poplar HARCA's Hidden Homes scheme, has transformed 16 redundant garages into 4 brand new homes.
What was it that motivated you to move to Mollis House?
I have been on the housing list for ten years! Within the last two years my housing needs increased because my son is autistic. Mollis House ticked all the boxes to accommodate my son’s needs. It is a bit closer to my son’s school, it has a private garden, and my son now has his own bedroom.
What impact has your new home had on your lifestyle?
Mollis House has had a huge impact on our lifestyle. My son is able to have his own space which being autistic he really needed. He finds it very difficult to socialise so having a private garden means he is now able to have outdoor space. He can go on a trampoline and loves playing with water, both of which help his muscles and sensory processing needs. We now live closer to his school so we can get there without any traffic problems.
What is your favourite thing about your new home?
Apart from this being my dream home! My favourite thing is having the feeling of being content and seeing my son be happy. My son loves having his own bedroom to play with his toys, and his most favourite thing is being able to have fun in the garden. Hearing him say “I like my new home” is a massive thing.
What impact did the lockdown have on your family, and how has moving home helped this?
Lockdown had a massive impact on my family as it was extremely hard. Being cooped up in a one-bedroom flat, having no space to move. Being in a block of flats surrounded by lots of people, noise etc meant my son had lots of meltdowns and anxiety. Living where we used to live and being in lockdown affected our mental health badly. Moving has meant my son has less meltdowns, we are happy, content and finally can live our best lives.
What was your experience like with Poplar HARCA?
I’ve had such a lovely experience with Poplar HARCA. Everyone has been so nice, kind, understanding and helpful. From speaking to reception staff to management I’ve received the same kind responses.
More about our 'Hidden Homes' schemeMore about Mollis House