A Keighley wheelchair user who had to struggle up and down 22 steps to get to and from her home has regained her independence after being re-housed.

Jemima Croft is appreciating being able to come and go at will, after she and her family were offered a more suitable home by housing association Incommunities.

The 16-year-old has a condition called chronic idiopathic musculoskeletal pain syndrome, and can only walk very short distances with the aid of crutches.

She said: “I’m much happier and more confident now.

“I can go to the shops or go out into the garden when it’s a nice day, and don’t have to wait for my mum or brother to be at home to carry my wheelchair.”

Her mother, Lindsay Kaye, said: “It’s smashing – it’s like Christmas has come early for us!”

As reported in the Keighley News in July, the family moved into their previous Incommunities house in Wardle Crescent in August of last year. However, the many steps leading up to the property became a serious obstacle once Jemima began feeling unwell shortly after moving in. Her illness was formally diagnosed last December.

Ms Kaye said since January of this year, she has been in touch with Incommunities to try and secure a ramp or an alternative home on level ground.

Keighley MP Kris Hopkins also contacted the landlord on behalf of the family to help resolve the situation.

Ms Kaye and her daughter got the news they had been waiting for last month, when they were told a bungalow in Coronation Way was available.

They received the keys on August 23 and moved in the following day.

“Jemima is absolutely thrilled,” she added. “She’s had a lot to put up with lately, but she’s been very determined. Now she no longer has to be so reliant on me or her brother.”

An Incommunities spokesman said: “We are committed to helping customers who wish to move to the right home that meets their needs.

“In this case, we worked closely with the family to find a suitable bungalow in the area of their choice, and we are pleased to hear they are happy with their move.”

Mr Hopkins said: “I’m delighted Jemima is happy and settled in her new home, and am grateful to Incommunities for its helpful approach in bringing this about.”