The Live Well Independently in Stockport Suite, based at Fred Perry House, is open to the public and welcoming visitors from across the borough. Designed to look and feel like a real home, it gives people the chance to explore practical support in everyday settings, including examples like Vanessa*, whose story shows the difference the right adaptations can make.
After reduced mobility and dizzy spells made bathing difficult, Vanessa visited the suite for an assessment. In one practical appointment, she tried a bath board, step and grab rails and received advice about other helpful support. Vanessa described the equipment as life changing. She can now bathe independently again without relying on her family to help her in and out of the bath.
Her experience is just one example of how the suite can help residents understand the options available, make informed decisions and take practical steps early, before needs become more complex.
Visitors can explore a fully furnished bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and living area, try out equipment and adaptations, and discover practical solutions that can make everyday life easier. The suite also includes an assessment staircase with a stair lift, giving people the opportunity to see and experience different mobility solutions first-hand.
The space showcases a range of equipment, adaptations and technology. From simple home adaptations to sensors, alerts and remote monitoring systems, visitors can try things out, ask questions and learn about support that may work for them or someone they care about.
The suite has been shaped with residents, including people with lived experience of disability and using technology in everyday life. It focuses on what matters most to people and demonstrates how support can work in real-life situations.
Cllr Helen Foster-Grime, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care
The suite gives residents, like Vanessa and carers the chance to see first-hand what support could work for them in a real-life setting. From everyday adaptations like stair lifts to innovative technology and simple devices like the one to assist pouring boiling water with a sensor when your cuppa is full. Our suite helps people plan ahead and stay independent for longer."
It also brings together residents, partners and our workforce in one place, strengthening how we deliver joined-up, person-centred care across Stockport. Real people must be at the heart of everything we do, and our team is passionate about helping people overcome the challenges that daily living can sometimes bring.
The suite is part of Stockport's wider Live Well approach, helping people access support earlier, reduce the risk of falls, avoid unnecessary hospital stays and remain confident in their own homes. It is the first place in Greater Manchester to bring together a fully interactive independent living home and a health and social care training academy in one space. It also provides a training environment for staff and partners, helping to strengthen skills and support integrated health and social care working.
You or a member of your family can drop in to Fred Perry House. Whether you're planning ahead, supporting a loved one or looking for advice now, the suite offers practical information, support and ideas to help people live independently for longer.
If you're unable to visit in person, you can also explore support and technology through Stockport's Virtual House.
To find out more or plan a visit, visit the Live Well Independently in Stockport Suite webpage.
- We've changed Vanessa’s name and other identifying information.
