A safe space to breathe

Sheila, a single mother of two, contacted the charity again after finding out that our Advocacy service could now provide damp and mould inspections in households.

She had taken up her flat tenancy with the council eleven months previously. Within the first month, it was clear there was a damp issue and she informed the council. Both the children’s bedroom and the bathroom were affected. The front door was also unsafe, from a fire regulations point of view and for security, being ill fitting and having flimsy locks.

After months of chasing the council and seeing no action at all, Sheila was becoming disheartened. This is when she contacted our advocacy service to raise a formal complaint.

Our Advocate Gearoid initially completed a Subject Access Request to obtain evidence held by the council on the condition of the property. Next, he completed a Housing Health Safety Risk Inspection, which is a recognised inspection used by local authorities within the private rented sector when evidencing unhealthy living conditions.

On submission of the report, the council finally took action at the flat in the areas noted as being hazardous. Sheila was pleased to have healthier and safe conditions for her and her family to live in.

Are you experiencing damp or mould issues at your flat? Contact our Advocacy team on gearoid.davey@scotscare.com to see how we can support you.