Hackney Council Proceeds with Eviction of Family with Disabled Child

Hackney Council is moving forward with the eviction of a family with a disabled child, despite concerns raised by activists and clinicians about the potential impact on the child's well-being. The family faces removal from their home due to allegations of tenancy fraud.

The borough's new Green-led administration has stated it does not possess the authority to stop the eviction, a position that contrasts with election promises made by the party. Mayor Zoë Garbett and Deputy Mayor Dylan Law, who holds the housing portfolio, have acknowledged a steep learning curve regarding council regulations and bureaucracy.

Concerns Over Child's Welfare

Charity Oppong and her eight-year-old son, Kayden, who has severe autism, are facing eviction after allegations of subletting a council flat. Kayden is non-verbal, prone to meltdowns, and has no safety awareness. Clinicians, including paediatrician Dr Hannah Caller from Homerton Hospital, have expressed alarm at the council's three-week notice period, warning that an abrupt move can be deeply distressing for autistic children.

The London Renters Union (LRU) and other clinicians have stated that relocating the family into temporary accommodation elsewhere in the borough will cause “deep distress” and lasting harm. They argue that remaining in his current area is crucial for Kayden's support network, school, and overall well-being.

Legal and Political Stance

Ms Oppong moved into the flat nearly 20 years ago when her sister-in-law, Janet Antwi, was the named tenant. Ms Antwi later moved abroad, but the tenancy was never formally transferred. Ms Oppong continued to pay rent and council tax, which the council accepted until 2021, when it initiated eviction proceedings on grounds of tenancy fraud. A judge granted the council a legal warrant for eviction in 2025.

The council maintains that the payments made by Ms Oppong did not constitute rent and did not establish a tenancy. Despite prior support for the family's cause from current Green councillors, including protests against bailiffs, the administration now states it is legally bound by national legislation and its housing allocation policy. An external barrister's advice confirmed that elected politicians cannot legally overrule officers on this decision.

Prior to their election, Green politicians had urged the then-Labour Mayor to withdraw the eviction notice, citing the need to safeguard children and avoid harm. The council has since offered Ms Oppong a temporary flat on the Woodberry Down estate, which is scheduled for demolition.

What Happens Next

The family was issued a fresh notice of eviction on 17 August. The council has stated it is legally obligated to proceed with the eviction and has offered temporary accommodation within the borough.