my and Joshua, a young couple in their twenties, are facing a dire situation. With three children and one on the way, they have been given just seven days’ notice to vacate their rental house. This has left them on the brink of homelessness.
Their financial struggles stem from their reliance on government assistance, making it difficult for them to keep up with their rental payments. As the eviction deadline looms, Amy and Joshua are frantically trying to figure out where they will go next.
The couple has reached out to relatives for housing assistance, but unfortunately, none of them are in a position to help. The only family member willing to lend a hand is an uncle who resides in Somerset, far from their current location.
Adding to their distress, the housing organization has threatened to separate their family members if they do not accept an offer that does not accommodate everyone. Amy and Joshua feel terrified and overwhelmed by the lack of options available to them.
Joshua and his late partner Victoria Robertshaw have been living in the same house for an extended period. However, the tenancy agreement only bears Victoria’s name. Tragically, Victoria passed away in August 2020, at the age of 45, due to COVID-19.
The Barnsley Council, responsible for providing consistent guidance, has made decisions that have left Joshua and his family in an impossible situation. Joshua remains resolute in not wanting to separate his family due to the council’s actions.
A possession order has been issued by a judge, mandating that the current occupants must leave the premises within seven days. This has deepened Amy and Joshua’s sense of urgency and desperation.
A spokesperson from Sanctuary Housing explained that the decision to issue the possession order was not taken lightly. Rent arrears had accumulated over a significant period of non-payment. Despite efforts to resolve the situation without legal action, it remains unresolved.
The Barnsley Council is working closely with all parties involved to secure alternative housing for Amy, Joshua, and their children as quickly as possible. This will allow the council to accommodate another family on Barnsley’s waiting list.
Jenny Platts, the Barnsley counselor handling the case, reassured that the housing department has provided the couple with advice and support regarding alternative housing options. Additionally, they are making every effort to expedite a search for suitable temporary accommodations, potentially in local hotels.
Despite the challenges they face, Amy and Joshua remain hopeful that a solution will be found before they find themselves without a place to call home.