A home for everyone
3 July 2024

Moving into her dream rural home has given Michelle new lease of life

Building rural homes changes lives and helps to strengthen communities as we continue to support families by providing affordable homes across the region.
Rural Housing Week in Somerton

Michelle Jaques and her four children could not be happier after moving into their dream home in the countryside. 

Originally from Yeovil, Michelle needed a larger home to accommodate her growing family and was delighted to be offered a four-bedroom property in the tranquil village of Somerton.

Michelle says her family’s lives have been transformed by being surrounded by a stunning backdrop of green fields, trees and farm animals. And the rural walks have helped her children reconnect with nature and enjoy a carefree upbringing surrounded by beautiful countryside. 
 

Speaking during Rural Housing Week, Michelle, 31, said: “I am a single mum with four children, and we love living here. 

“We have no neighbours overlooking us and the house is beautiful. “It is an end of terrace home with four bedrooms and a beautiful kitchen diner which is huge. 

“We came from a three bedroom home in Yeovil and all of the children have got their own space now. We have never been happier. 

“We have found a number of long walks to take us into the countryside and we have a field opposite our home with cattle coming in and out. 

“We have also walked to the surrounding villages on footpaths and we love it. 

“There are loads of things going on around here for communities which is lovely. 

“The children are able to get out, there is a youth club and there is a massive party in the park in July which they are looking forward to.” 


We have developed 16 homes in Somerton, with 12 for social rent and four for shared ownership. 

All of the homes have been designed with energy efficiency in mind to help customers with their energy bills. 

Michelle added: “My energy bills are quite low now. “When I lived in Yeovil I was paying anything between £200 and £300 a month on just one supplier where that was gas or electricity. So around £600 a month. 

“My highest electricity bill since being here is £120 a month and the highest gas bill has been £110 so that is dramatically low compared to what I was paying.

“Bearing in mind one of my daughters is special needs so there are appliances running all the time. The home is really energy efficient and it means we are able to do more than we used to. 

“I am now able to take the children to nice places as we are spending less on our energy bills.”

Rural Housing Week in Somerton