Recently, Councillor Brendon O’Donnell raised concerns about a home in Gloucester that had severe damp and mould issues, particularly affecting a couple with serious mental health issues in Matson. The mould was so bad that it caused him to choke on the air when he visited the property with another councillor. It was discovered that the contractors had only advised wiping the mould away, but the problem persisted. A call for a review of social housing in Gloucester has been made, with Planning and Housing Strategy Cabinet Member Stephanie Chambers discussing the need to address similar issues in other areas identified by the council’s stock survey.
Stephanie Chambers noted that efforts were being made to address the situation, including arranging meetings with housing officers and council members to discuss the concerns. Gloucester City Homes (GCH) acknowledged the issue and stated that they have been supporting the affected customer in dealing with the mould, which has been exacerbated by hoarding. Despite offering alternative accommodation, the customer initially refused to move out, but later agreed to temporarily vacate the property. GCH arranged hotel accommodation and provided a shopping voucher until suitable temporary accommodation could be found, emphasizing the need for a coordinated effort among stakeholders to address complex cases like this one.
The situation highlighted by Councillor O’Donnell underscores the need for a thorough review of social housing practices to ensure that vulnerable individuals living in such homes are not subjected to unsafe living conditions. The mould and damp found in the Gloucester property were so severe that it impacted the health and wellbeing of the residents, particularly those with existing mental health issues. It also raises questions about the adequacy of maintenance and repair services provided by housing providers, as evident from the insufficient response given by the contractors who simply suggested wiping the mould away.
The challenges faced by the affected residents, including hoarding and the reluctance to move out temporarily, point to the complex nature of such cases that require a multi-agency approach to address effectively. GCH’s effort to support the customer and work towards clearing and cleaning the property demonstrates a commitment to resolving the root cause of the issue. Collaboration between housing providers, local councils, social services, and community partners is essential to build trust, break down barriers, and provide long-term solutions that prioritize the health and safety of tenants in social housing.
The call for a review of social housing in Gloucester comes at a time when the importance of ensuring safe and adequate housing for all residents, particularly those in vulnerable situations, is paramount. It highlights the need for proactive measures to address issues such as damp and mould in properties, as well as the importance of robust oversight and accountability mechanisms to prevent similar cases from arising in the future. By working together, stakeholders can create a more supportive and inclusive housing environment that meets the needs of all residents, irrespective of their circumstances or challenges.
