Amy and Joshua, a young couple in their twenties with three children and another on the way, are facing the grim reality of potential homelessness. They were given just seven days’ notice to vacate their rental home, a situation made even more dire by their reliance on government assistance, which has hindered their ability to keep up with rental payments.
Desperate for Help, Yet Limited Options
With the looming eviction, the couple is in a state of uncertainty, unsure where they will live once their current residence is no longer available. Despite their desperate need for housing assistance, they have found little support from their relatives, except for an uncle living in Somerset who tried to help. However, their situation was further complicated by a housing organization that threatened to separate the family if they didn’t accept an offer, leaving Amy and Joshua feeling terrified and helpless.
Confusion and Inconsistent Communication
Adding to their stress, Barnsley Council’s inconsistent communication has left Joshua and his family uncertain about the steps they should take. Despite having lived in the same house indefinitely, Joshua’s name was not on the tenancy agreement, which was in the name of Victoria Robertshaw, who passed away in August 2020 due to COVID-19 at the age of 45. This oversight has placed the family in an impossible situation, as conflicting decisions from the council have compounded their challenges. Joshua remains resolute, refusing to break up his family, despite the difficult circumstances.
Legal Actions and the Search for a Solution
The situation escalated when a judge issued an outright possession order, mandating that the family vacate their home within seven days. According to a spokesperson from Sanctuary Housing, this decision was not made lightly but was necessary due to the long-standing rent arrears that had accumulated over several months without payment. Despite numerous efforts to resolve the situation without resorting to legal action, the issue remains unresolved.
Council’s Efforts and Future Prospects
Barnsley Council has been working with all parties involved to find a new home for Amy, Joshua, and their children as quickly as possible. This would also allow the council to accommodate another family on Barnsley’s waiting list. Jenny Platts, the Barnsley counselor overseeing the case, stated that the housing department has provided advice and support regarding possible alternatives. Furthermore, the council is making every effort to expedite the search for suitable housing, ensuring the family finds a stable place to live.
