A DISABLED woman who was trapped in her unsuitable home for 18 months has finally moved.

Rosemary Webley, 73, of Darwin Avenue, Worcester, suffered a badly damaged hip after a fall in 2013 and was unable to use the steep steps to escape her flat.

But a specialist service provided by the British Red Cross helped her re-locate and she is now enjoying the independence of living in a ground floor apartment.

Miss Webley said: "It was such a relief to finally leave the house.

"When I fell my hip just crumbled and I had to start using a wheelchair.

"I couldn't go anywhere and I was trapped due to my disability.

"I try to be as independent as I can but there’s no way I could have got down those steps on my own.

"The British Red Cross said it was no problem – they would come and carry me down the steps and take me to view houses in their specially adapted vehicle.

"I would like to convey my deep gratitude to the British Red Cross."

She added that volunteers Trevor Phillips and Mark Kibble were "lovely" and a "hoot" and praised them for doing a "super job" - and was even inspired to donate £100 to the charity and write to the Worcester News about her positive experience.

Mr Kibble, a veteran volunteer from Evesham with 15 years of service, said: “We supported Rosemary over about six months and in time we developed a real friendship - she was such a lovely lady.

"It’s brilliant to see her settled in her new flat with French doors that open out to the garden, so she isn’t cooped up indoors.

“I find it really rewarding, especially chatting to people and making them feel comfortable.

“It was a lovely surprise to hear about Rosemary’s letter. It’s good to know that the service is really making a difference in people’s lives.”

Jane Abdulla, operations director for British Red Cross in Worcestershire, added: “With support from our volunteers, people like Rosemary can get out and about safely, knowing that someone will be there with them the whole time.

"For many people the company of a dedicated volunteer can be invaluable.

“It also helps individuals stay connected to the people and places that matter to them, helping them to get out of the house, building confidence and independence.”

The British Red Cross patient transport service provides return transport to appointments or personal visits using a fleet of ambulances.

Individuals with mobility difficulties who have been referred by hospitals, GPs or care homes are eligible to benefit from the scheme.

Trained volunteers assist the patients and support them throughout their journeys.

For more details about the British Red Cross call 0300 3336521 or visit redcross.org.uk, or to book patient transport contact 01905 450432.