My husband and I were born and bred in Brighton. I gave up my council flat eight years ago because of domestic violence. I then rented privately and met my husband.
We now rent a three bedroom house in Portslade. The rent officer states my home is worth only £156 a week but the rent is £180 a week. We claim WFTC and DLA for my son who has special needs and attends the Ican speech and language unit in Patcham.
We pay more than £400 every four weeks towards our rent and full council tax. Last year we made inquires into shared ownership and this year were given the impression by Brighton and Hove City Council and the Moat housing scheme that the DIYSO scheme would be funded as from April. We have been approved a small mortgage, saved for the fees, been promised the deposit required and registered with many estate agents.
After many phone calls and letters, Moat finally told me the council has decided not to fund the scheme. There is no alternative for us but to
consider moving somewhere cheaper. We wanted to buy somewhere for stability and security for our children. One has mild special needs, one severe special needs and the eldest is due to start senior school this year. The council will not help us and nor will any housing associations whose lists are full.
People from London are moving here because it is cheaper than London yet local families on low incomes are having to leave. Councillors state there is a housing problem yet seem to be doing little about it. Does someone want to explain to my four-year-old why he has to leave a speech unit and ease his anxiety? When my mother, who suffers from a mental illness, is ill again, who will be there for her on a daily basis?
For most people, the housing crisis is something they read about and then forget. For people such as us, it is a big concern.
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