Southall pensioner fears for life as council refuses rehousing

A vulnerable pensioner in Southall claims she is living in a “constant state of terror” due to alleged harassment and violence from neighbours, but Hounslow Council has refused her requests to be rehoused. The woman, identified as Ms A, who is recovering from a stroke, alleges that neighbours have forced entry into her flat, demanded money, stolen her medication, and smashed her windows. She has repeatedly asked the council to move her from the property, citing fears for her safety and severe mobility problems, osteoporosis, chronic pain, PTSD, and anxiety.

Ms A, who lives alone, stated she is “living on tenterhooks” and cannot have family visit because it is not safe. She also fears using her mobility scooter outside due to potential attacks. The pensioner was placed in the Southall flat by Hounslow Council after receiving a no-fault eviction notice in 2024. Although the Local Government Ombudsman ruled that she should be rehoused in a two-bedroom property closer to her support network, she remains several bus journeys from family members.

Escalating Incidents

The alleged problems began within Ms A's first week in the property. She claims an upstairs neighbour entered her flat, demanded money, and stole prescription medication. This was followed by constant harassment, including knocking on her door and banging on windows at all hours demanding money, and racial abuse. Ms A also alleges that parcels were stolen from outside her flat and objects thrown at her windows, with incidents she says were captured on video. She claims one neighbour repeatedly attempted to force his way into her home.

Ms A reported these incidents to Sapphire Housing, her landlord, within weeks of moving in. She stated that police have attended the building on numerous occasions, and there are dozens of active crime reference numbers linked to her reports. Despite this, she claims the council has refused requests for an emergency transfer, stating she was 'okay' because Sapphire Housing and the police were aware of the situation.

Council and Landlord Response

Hounslow Council confirmed it had investigated Ms A's homelessness application, which was based on allegations of anti-social behaviour. However, the council concluded that Sapphire Housing, as the landlord, was taking appropriate action. A council spokesperson stated that a 'not homeless' decision had been issued, and at this stage, Sapphire Housing is responsible for investigating the issues and taking appropriate action.

Sapphire Housing confirmed it had not ignored Ms A's concerns and has commenced legal proceedings against the neighbours accused of anti-social behaviour. The housing association stated the purpose of this action is to address the behaviour affecting Ms A and other residents, and they are awaiting a court hearing date. A spokesperson for Sapphire Housing added that they continue to work with Hounslow Council to explore rehousing options, but limited housing stock means no suitable property is currently available in Ms A's preferred areas. They apologised for the distress Ms A has experienced.

Despite the legal action initiated by Sapphire Housing, Ms A expressed fear for her life and reiterated her desire for a safe place to live. The stress of the situation has reportedly worsened her mobility, caused memory problems, and left her feeling trapped inside her flat.