Family of 8 Struggle to Breathe in Dripping Wet ‘Uninhabitable’ House
A family of eight residing in a house labelled as “uninhabitable” by a health visitor is facing dire living conditions. Gemma Norris, Anthony Saunders, and their six children are currently living in a four-bedroom property in Nantymoel, Bridgend, which they describe as constantly damp. Despite their efforts, including using multiple dehumidifiers simultaneously and keeping windows open with the heating on, the house remains wet.
The family was relocated to the property by Bridgend County Borough Council as part of their temporary accommodation scheme. The council does not own the property or any temporary housing within the borough but works with registered social landlords and private rentals to provide temporary housing solutions for those on the housing waiting list.
Ms. Norris expressed concerns regarding the safety of the house and reached out to Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board. A health visitor who inspected the property described alarming conditions within, including water pouring down walls, mouldy mattresses, and damp bedding. She noted that two of the bedrooms were deemed uninhabitable due to excessive dampness.
The family shared that the constant dampness in the house is affecting their health, with some of the children experiencing asthma attacks. Ms. Norris recounted their housing journey, stating they had moved six times, with their current residence posing the worst living conditions. The health visitor highlighted the heightened risk to the family’s health due to the prevalent dampness in the house.
The family is now coping with health issues as a result of the poor living conditions. The health visitor reported concerns about the baby’s sleeping environment, with the baby’s Moses basket and mattress found to be mouldy and wet. Ms. Norris expressed worry about her baby’s health and the impact of the living conditions on her children.
The council responded to the situation by stating that they engage with external bodies to investigate and address issues as needed. Meanwhile, Ms. Norris and Mr. Saunders continue to struggle in the damp and uninhabitable conditions of their current home, with several children experiencing health issues due to the persistently wet environment.
The dire situation faced by this family highlights the challenges many families encounter in securing safe and habitable housing, shedding light on the urgent need for suitable housing solutions for vulnerable families in the community.