Our Independence Team is here for you when you need our support and can offer practical advice if your needs change.
The service is tailored for you and is based around a personalised welfare check and plan, optional ‘check in’ phone calls, access to our wellbeing and advice hub - all of which is supported by digital technology, giving peace of mind to you, your family, friends and neighbours.
We currently provide this service to customers living in various schemes and properties throughout the South Lakes area.
Please get in touch with the Independence team by calling us on 0300 303 8025 or send us an email to independence@southlakeshousing.co.uk. You can also complete our contact form below.
We have an experienced and dedicated team of people who shape the plans and direction of our Indpendence offering and deliver our much needed services to our residents.
Jane Mindar
Independence & Wellbeing Manager
Jane joined SLH in 2024 and is passionate about working with older people to ensure that they receive bespoke support and guidance to enable them to live their very best life.
Jane graduated from Liverpool University with a degree in English Language and Literature, then went on to complete an MA at Nottingham Trent University in Quality Management and Improvement.
She worked at Riverside Housing for 10 years and during that time her team won the EROSHH award for innovation and she was invited to speak at 2 CIH events about innovations in housing older people. She has an eclectic career history as she has worked in fashion export and education with her last roles being in mental health and working for Age UK.
Jane is committed to the provision of excellent customer service, to listening to and hearing the residents’ voice and ultimately managing change to make the homes and services which Independence residents at SLH receive are great quality, responsive and co-produced.
Chris Hollis
Independence and Wellbeing Co-ordinator
I have worked on the Independence team since September 2024, which was a switch in career for me away from the leisure industry. I have always loved to interact with customers, which is why I was attracted to this role.
I really enjoy working with Independence residents because it gives me the chance to build meaningful relationships and make a positive impact in their daily lives. Many of them have unique stories and experiences, and I find it rewarding to support them in maintaining their independence while ensuring they feel safe, respected, and valued.
There’s a real sense of community in our Independence housing, and being part of that—helping to foster trust and connection—is something I genuinely appreciate. It’s not just about providing assistance; it’s about being a reliable presence and a friendly face they can count on.
Jackie Lewis
Independence and Wellbeing Co-ordinator
I have worked at SLH for 22 years and specialise in providing older people’s services. I am part of great, supportive team and we are all very much focussed on supporting the people who live in Independence homes to remain independent and get the most out of life.
I am passionate about the people – less so the paperwork – but the new welfare check forms are useful as they bring a bit of structure. Things have changed a lot since I have worked at SLH and older people have changed a lot in terms of their needs and outlook.
It is a fantastic job to do as it gives me a huge sense of satisfaction, knowing that I can help people and also having the time to get to know what motivates them.
Debbie Robison
Independence and Wellbeing Co-ordinator
Hi I am Debbie – born and raised in the Kendal area – I have worked for SLH for over 16 years. I work in the Independence team and manage Edgecombe Court and our properties in Sedbergh.
I am passionate about my work in the Independence team working with older people to support them to stay independent, safe and happy in their homes.
We offer health and wellbeing advice where required. We have many talented people living in the properties we manage who keep busy and use creativity to stay youthful.
I too try to stay active in my spare time I am in Drum Nation, which is incredible, I help out with lambing, playing pickle ball and try to go open water swimming when I can.
The Independence team are passionate about what we do and love helping people!”
Hannah Sowerby
Independence and Wellbeing Co-ordinator
Hi I am Hannah and I am the newest and youngest of our lovely Independence team! I look after Gallowbarrow and Cross Lane schemes in Kendal and I love my job because despite its challenges it is fun and every day is different.
I believe in doing what I can to help older people and Independence allows me to deliver on this every day. I am particularly enjoying helping with the organisation and promotion of events on schemes as I think this is really beneficial for our residents!
In my spare time I love to go on holiday, spend time with my family and enjoy running around after my two lovely girls.
Loving my job and SLH!”
