From burglary fear to birthday cheer

Joe Tomlinson celebrates his 90th birthday at the side of Gladys, his wife of 65 years

The past three months have been a hectic whirlwind of activity for 90-year-old Joe Tomlinson and his wife Gladys.

Towards the end of last year Joe and Gladys were the victim of a burglary in which they found four masked men in their bungalow. Although they survived the ordeal unharmed it left the couple permanently on edge as they feared a repeat break-in.

The couple felt trapped in their own home as they feared leaving it unattended, and even when they were at home every strange noise brought back worries about someone else trying to get in.

The RBH Housing Options for Older People (HOOP) heard about the situation and dived in to help the concerned couple.

HOOP advisors Mary Wood and Paula Young worked with colleagues to identify a suitable property in an Independent Living Scheme (ILS) and within a short space of time took Gladys and Joe to view a flat. Although Gladys immediately took to the new place, Joe was at first wary of making such a big change in his later years. Despite Joe’s initial reservations the couple decided to sign up for their new tenancy.

With everyone pitching in, the move was much smoother than Joe expected and he and Gladys are now happily living in their new flat – just in time for Joe’s 90th birthday! Knowing that Joe’s big day was just around the corner, Mary, Paula and the residents of the ILS put on a birthday party for Joe. It was also an unofficial welcome by the residents into their new home.

Mary said: “Paula and I were able to sort out the actual move in a day. We were at their old bungalow to help move what was going with them and to make sure that they were looked after during what is for anyone a time of upheaval.

“Joe and Gladys are fast making new friends and can relax at night feeling safe and secure in their new surroundings.” 

Not content with their double celebration, 2019 will provide another special occasion for the couple.

After meeting at the Palladium nightclub in Blackley in 1954, the couple will celebrate 65 years of married life in September.