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When Janice Andrews moved to Whitley Court in December 2020, she didn’t just find a new flat — she found a community. Five years on, she describes the move as “the best decision I ever made” and it’s easy to see why.
For Janice, Whitley Court has been transformational. Living among friendly neighbours has given her a renewed sense of connection and purpose. “There are people around you here who keep you active,” she explains. “I consider them my friends now. I didn’t have that sense of connection where I lived before.” It’s a reminder that good housing does far more than provide a roof — it supports wellbeing in the fullest sense.
Janice is anything but idle. She is Chair of her local branch of the University of the Third Age (U3A), as well as speaker secretary and outings organiser — roles that would keep most people more than busy. Her enthusiasm for lifelong learning and social connection mirrors the values at the heart of Whitley Court.
Her contribution extends well beyond the scheme itself. Janice helps organise committee meetings for the Handsworth Historical Society, which are regularly hosted in Whitley Court’s communal lounge. By opening the doors to local groups, she helps ensure the scheme remains firmly connected to the wider neighbourhood.
Janice also serves as Whitley Court’s Environmental Ambassador, championing practical, down-to-earth sustainability. She actively encourages residents to be more energy aware and has set up specialist recycling for items such as crisp packets, bread bags and vegetable packaging. Never one to stop at theory, she is also enhancing the shared garden with bat boxes, supporting local wildlife and biodiversity. It’s conservation with common sense — and a bit of determination.
Despite her many roles, Janice is clear about what makes Whitley Court special. “I love my flat,” she says. “Looking out of the window, I see green, beautiful scenery and a large copper beech tree. It’s lovely.” One of her favourite simple pleasures is opening the window when it rains, listening to the sound of water falling gently across the garden.
“I hope this will be my forever home,” Janice adds. “Whitley Court keeps me active, and that’s exactly how I want to be. I don’t want to stay still.”
Janice’s story captures the spirit of Whitley Court perfectly — strong community ties, and the freedom to keep contributing, learning and growing. Every scheme needs people like Janice. Luckily for Whitley Court, she’s already there.