Amy and Joshua, a young couple in their twenties, are facing imminent homelessness. With three children and another on the way, they were given only seven days to vacate their rental home. This sudden notice has left them scrambling for solutions as they struggle to keep up with rent payments, relying solely on government assistance.
Desperate Search for Housing
With the eviction deadline fast approaching, Amy and Joshua are uncertain about their next steps. None of their relatives can offer housing assistance, except for an uncle who lives in Somerset. Despite their efforts, the housing organization has pressured them to accept an offer that would split their family members. This threat has left them feeling terrified and helpless.
Conflicting Messages and Legal Hurdles
Barnsley Council’s inconsistent communication has only added to their confusion. Joshua has lived in the same house indefinitely, but his name was not on the tenancy agreement; only Victoria Robertshaw’s, who passed away in August 2020 from COVID-19, was listed. This legal oversight has complicated their situation further. Joshua is determined to keep his family together, despite the council’s varying decisions.
Legal Actions and Efforts to Resolve
A judge has issued an outright possession order, mandating that the family vacate the home within seven days. According to a Sanctuary Housing spokeswoman, the decision was made due to substantial rent arrears accrued over months of non-payment. Despite efforts to resolve the situation without legal action, the arrears remained unaddressed.
Council’s Response and Future Prospects
Barnsley Council is actively working to find a new home for the family, aiming to free up the current property for another family on the waiting list. Jenny Platts, the Barnsley counselor handling the case, stated that the housing department has provided advice and assistance to the couple regarding potential alternatives. The council is committed to expediting the search for suitable accommodation to help the family transition smoothly.
