In her late seventies, a woman was living in a rural cottage in Suffolk. Her housing journey included homeownership, which ended following a relationship breakdown, time living abroad, and a move to be closer to her daughter. After living an independent, self-reliant, and very varied life, her housing choices became constrained by financial circumstances. Despite previous positive renting experiences, her situation was increasingly precarious. The cottage had multiple structural and safety issues, including damp, faulty electrics and cooker, and inadequate heating.
The poor housing conditions affected both her physical and mental health.
The stress of uncertainty and lack of control over her living situation compounded her health challenges.
She felt a power imbalance with her landlord that contrasted with past experiences.
She feared retaliation though if she complained.
She considered enquiring about social housing but was discouraged by the local council’s website, as well as finding it difficult to talk to others about the problems she has faced.
The involvement of Safe Suffolk Renters offered hope.
However, she was anxious about the disruption repairs might cause.
The Safe Suffolk Renters team gave the property a Grade 1 hazard rating, indicating serious health risks. It was clear that it was not in the tenant’s best interests to confront the landlord, even with support, so the team looked at alternatives, becoming aware of vacancies at local almshouses. After being interviewed at one of them, the trustees recognised the urgent need and offered a flat, providing a secure and stable home environment.
Repeated, unwanted contact was received from the landlord after giving notice and she understands that the landlord tried to re-let the property without addressing the issues. Despite this, her health and wellbeing have shown signs of improvement, with stress significantly reduced through a sense of safety and permanence. The almshouse offers an attractive setting, with interesting architecture and gardens, suiting her sense of identity, and she has been able to personalise her space. There are communal facilities and social opportunities, and the flexibility to remain private and independent. She has begun to re-engage with physical activity, including tending to an allotment, and felt hopeful about her recovery.
