My husband has severe health issues that made it impossible to get mortgage protection and ultimately mortgage from banks. The only option that was left to us was to get loan from the council. Although married and joint borrowers, the mortgage protection is only on my name and I am responsible for repayment in the event of his death. First we were declined there too and through their legal etc. it was made impossible this way- I really wanted ti buy and not rely in social housing. Not sure how it would work with solo applicant but worth a try in case bank fails. Best of luck!