View Full Version : Help, where do I stand?


honeyb35
17-03-2009, 15:19
I was moved into my current council house a year ago, after being on the priority list for a year due to the previous house being unsuitable for adaptations for my disabled son. This house hasn't been adapted but I was told it had been assessed and classed as suitable for adaptations to be done.
I have now been told that they can't adapt after all, and that a structural engineer never looked at the house to clarify what could be done. I have since found out that the house was never assessed, but a false report was submitted by the adaptations team to Sheffield homes, hence them offering us the house.
I have asked for a second opinion, and have the local councillor involved but its not looking hopeful and they are wanting to put me back on the rehoming list.
Without sounding like a spoilt child, I don't WANT to be rehomed! I have spent a fair amount of money redecorating this house and I love it here. The children are happy and settled, my daughter goes to school in the village and my son is at a special needs school close by.
If we go back onto the list it could mean another year or possibly more of the uncertainty, as adapted houses are so difficult to come by, for obvious reasons. It was so stressful moving last time, as you have such a short time to do it in, and all the other stress that goes along with moving!
I don't want to move out of the area, due to the schools, and also my only (family) support is here. Going back onto the list could mean we end up in a property the other side of Sheffield.
Exchanging is also not an option, again due to needing an adapted property.
I'm so gutted that the adaptations team messed up so badly. I know we can refuse to move, but I guess that means the adaptations we need won't get done and it won't be long before our son becomes impossible to carry.

Ms Macbeth
18-03-2009, 20:00
You say you have a councillor involved. Perhaps he/she can arrange a meeting with Sheffield Homes regarding your options. As you were given false assurances that the adaptations could be carried out, perhaps you should hold out for:

The first suitable house that becomes available, in or near your current area.
Financial recompense for what you've spent in your current home
Assurances from technically qualified people that any property you accept can, and will be adapted as soon as possible when you move

As you say, your options for staying aren't too good in the long run.