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Large landlord ‘deeply concerned’ after child hospitalised for seventh time
A large association has said it is deeply concerned after a three-year-old child living in damp and mould in one of its homes was hospitalised for the seventh time.
Ian Gregg, executive director of asset services at Riverside, said the landlord initially believed previous work done on the child’s home in Middleton, Greater Manchester, had addressed concerns, but a further inspection following the child’s ill health found that this was not the case.
He said: “Unfortunately this inspection has highlighted the need for further action to tackle damp and ventilation problems within the property, and we are in the process of preparing a schedule of works.”
Riverside had previously moved the family into a hotel to carry out repair work on the home, before saying they could return.
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However, the Greater Manchester Tenants Union (GMTU) said the family was “forced back into the mouldy housing”.
In a statement, the union said: “As well as this, dust and spores were all over their bedding, clothing, carpets, furniture and children’s toys.
“Seven days later, despite the warning given, the three-year-old child was readmitted to the ICU with severe breathing difficulties while Riverside ignored all urgent communications from the tenants union and the tenant’s housing officer refused to answer her phone.”
A spokesperson for GMTU said: “This situation is just the tip of the iceberg with Riverside Housing in Middleton.
“It is despicable and criminal that any housing association can continue to fail to meet their basic obligations so badly that children are being repeatedly hospitalised.”
Mr Greg said: “We are deeply concerned to hear that Ms Smith’s son has fallen unwell and want to wish him a speedy return to good health so that he can return home as soon as possible.
“We completed extensive damp remedial works at Ms Smith’s home last week and were initially satisfied these addressed the concerns raised.
“However, in learning of her son’s ill health yesterday and subsequent reports of ongoing damp within her flat, we arranged a further urgent inspection.
“Unfortunately this inspection has highlighted the need for further action to tackle damp and ventilation problems within the property, and we are in the process of preparing a schedule of works.
“In the meantime, we are making arrangements to support the family into temporary accommodation while we complete the works required.
“We fully appreciate Ms Smith’s continued concern during this difficult time and remain committed to working with her to ensure her family’s return home.”
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