Amy and Joshua, a couple in their twenties with three young children and another on the way, are confronting the urgent risk of homelessness after receiving only a week’s notice to vacate their rented residence. The couple, dependent on government assistance, has struggled to maintain their rent payments, resulting in this precarious predicament.
As they come to terms with the possibility of eviction, Amy and Joshua remain unsure of where they will secure shelter for their family after departing from their current home. Although they require housing support, they have encountered limited assistance from relatives, aside from a generous offer from an uncle residing in Somerset.
The couple faced an impossible choice when the housing authority threatened eviction if they didn’t accept a plan that would split their family. Feeling frightened and powerless, Amy and Joshua are struggling to navigate the signals from Barnsley Council, which has complicated their decision-making process.
Joshua and Victoria Robertshaw had lived together for many years, yet the lease was solely in Victoria’s name. Unfortunately, Victoria succumbed to COVID-19 in August 2020 at the age of 45. In the wake of this tragedy, Joshua is resolute in his commitment to keep his family together, even as the ambiguous guidance from the council exacerbates their precarious situation.
Recently, a court mandated that the tenants vacate the premises within seven days, drastically altering their lives. A representative from Sanctuary Housing stated that this decision stemmed from a buildup of unpaid rent, despite numerous attempts to address the matter amicably.
The family has occupied the residence for several months without remitting rent. Attempts to amicably address the issue have proven unsuccessful, resulting in the present situation. Barnsley Council is diligently collaborating with the relevant parties to expedite the family’s relocation, with the objective of making the home available for other families requiring assistance.
Jenny Platts, the Barnsley councillor overseeing the matter, stated that the housing department has provided guidance to Amy and Joshua and has presented various potential solutions. They are dedicated to assisting the family in securing appropriate housing as swiftly as possible, considering the current circumstances.