Jeff (not his real name) was a business owner doing well and living in private rented accommodation. But then his life changed. He was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, couldn’t work any more, and was unable to afford the rent.
Paula, his Whitechapel Centre resettlement worker, explained, “Eventually he owed £32,000 in rent arrears, which meant he was excluded from both private sector and social housing options. But he needed sheltered accommodation due to his ill health.”
“Deep gratitude”
Paula managed to persuade the landlord to write off the debt as Jeff would not be able to pay it back even if it went to court. This meant she could then get Jeff into sheltered accommodation, which she did within two months. She says, “Jeff is happy and settled in his new accommodation and is in receipt of all benefits he is entitled to.”
Jeff himself thanks Paula and The Whitechapel Centre. “A warm thank you for your precious and unforgettable support [in helping me] get over my housing crisis, and assisting with a new solution. You have my deep gratitude!”
