Allocating ground floor social housing for triplet families is essential, for many reasons ranging from safety to wellbeing.

Ground floor housing mitigates fire hazards, allowing for quicker and safer evacuations during emergencies. It reduces the physical burden on parents, who would otherwise struggle to carry triplets, buggies and supplies up and down the stairs. Beyond practical safety concerns, ground floor living promotes better child development by making it easier for families to access outdoor spaces, which are vital for physical activity and improves social interaction for the family.

Safety concerns

For parents, particularly those who may be single or with limited mobility, living on a higher floor presents a real risk. In emergencies like fires or other building evacuations, the time and effort required to get three small children down multiple flights of stairs can be life-threatening. Lifts are often not an option during such emergencies, making the situation even more dangerous.

Physical strain on parents

Caring for triplets is physically demanding and this strain is exacerbated by the challenges of living on a higher floor. Parents are frequently required to carry children, buggies, shopping and other necessities up and down stairs, which can be exhausting and increase the risk of falls or injuries. These daily tasks can become overwhelming, affecting parents' physical and mental health.

Impact on child development and wellbeing

Triplets, like all young children, need regular access to outdoor spaces for physical activity, fresh air and social interaction. Families housed on higher floors may find it difficult to make frequent trips outside, leading to children spending more time indoors. This limitation can negatively impact their physical development, mental wellbeing and social skills. Moreover, the lack of easy access to outdoor play areas can increase the risk of childhood obesity and related health issues.

Social isolation

Living on higher floors can also contribute to social isolation for families with triplets. The challenges of navigating stairs or waiting for lifts with three young children can make parents less likely to engage in social activities or connect with neighbours. This can be particularly harmful for single parents who rely on community support. Additionally, the limited mobility associated with higher floors can prevent parents from accessing local services, playgroups and community resources, which are crucial for both parental support and child development.

Also, the physical demands of carrying three babies, along with their equipment and necessities, make using stairs both impractical and exhausting. This can severely limit the family's ability to leave their home, hindering the socialisation of the children who will miss out on critical interactions that are essential for their development. By advocating for ground floor housing for these families, we can significantly enhance their quality of life and ensure their safety.

What do we want to see?

When local authorities are housing families with triplets, they are automatically located in ground floor accommodation.

Your experience matters

We invite community feedback and support in pushing for these changes. If you would like to share your story or talk to us about our campaigns please email [email protected].

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