A vulnerable Brixton family have accused Lambeth Council of “breaking their promises” today after they failed to act against the mould in their home.
Two weeks ago Marie McManus, 36, of Saxby Road said her family was “living in fear” because they were stuck with “nasty” mould in their home after months of asking the council for help. Documents appear to show it has been at least a year since a surveyor concluded the home was in disrepair.
At the time Lambeth Council said they had arranged to put up scaffolding in the garden “in the coming days” to fix guttering which was causing the damp conditions but Marie says the scaffolding never came.
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When contractors arrived at the house last week they told her they were not aware of how much work there was, instead organising another council surveyor to visit.
Marie said: “I feel completely devastated and p*ssed off.
“At this moment in time my whole family’s lives do not matter, you are literally prepared to kill us.”
She also revealed dirty water had begun flooding her kitchen, leaving her terrified for the safety of her mum Agnes Carruthers, 66, who has suffered a stroke.
Despite Marie saying she has called the council four times she claims she has received no assistance and the issue continues. Lambeth is legally responsible for the property.
“It is just disgusting to keep having to live this way,” she added.
There are still growths months after Lambeth council were first told about the problem
A report from Lambeth’s own surveyor in April 2020 concluded: “It is evident that the property is suffering from various defects, which, in my opinion, constitute disrepair”.
They added: “It is my opinion that with careful programming, the remedial works required to the property can be undertaken with the resident and her family in occupation, and that the works are not weather – dependent and therefore can be carried out at any time throughout the year.”
The family suffer from mental health conditions that mean they act as carers to each other, it also makes it difficult for them to fight their corner.
“Rock of the family” Marie admitted she felt “guilty” as she was “powerless” to protect her mum and brothers from the conditions.
She is pleading for safe and sanitary accommodation that will give the family enough living space so they can get their lives back.
Lambeth Council disputed Marie’s claims saying “the service confirms that the scaffolding is booked in for the 29th September, and that this was agreed with the tenant on their previous visit”.
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