Homeless man raises concerns over Peter Street accommodation

Jay Harding has been living in the Peter Street accommodation in Whitehaven since September 2023 and claims he has been given no help.

The 36-year-old from Maryport, says he was placed in the Home Group accommodation, which houses people with complex needs, following a relationship breakdown.

The room Jay has been living in at Peter Street since September last year (Image: Submitted)

Mr Harding is keen to find a suitable home to allow him to have his children and get back into work but says there has been no support.

He said he has raised his concerns with Home Group multiple times and submitted an official complaint but Home Group deny this.

Mr Harding said: “Since arriving at the property, I have been neglected. There is zero help in place for the tenants. Homeless people are not given priority at all.

“This supported accommodation that costs the tax payer £1,400 a month in rent should be abolished. The cost of rent at Peter Street is shocking for the very, very little we have offered to us.

“I am forced to live with drug addicts so close to a school. This place has caused me depression. I would never consider recommending this service to anyone in good mental health.

“I came here under false promises that were forgotten about within days of moving in.”

Brian O’Kane, a Whitehaven town councillor, has previously raised concerns over the proximity of the accommodation to St James’ C of E Infant School.

He said: “The whole situation with the Home Group housing in the Peter Street area of town needs a closer examination between Home Group and the authorities because of the situations that appear to be revolving around that area.

“In many respects, it’s causing a major worry for a lot of the neighbouring properties. I’ve had to work with Home Group residents who have lived in fear in the area.”

Lisa Russell, Home Group’s regional director North West, said: “I’m really sorry to hear that Jay doesn’t feel supported. Since moving into the service in September he has had a support worker and has been spoken to daily whether this be face to face or over the phone.

 “We have delivered support sessions for Jay and helped with financial advice, pastoral support and given character references for rehousing applications.

“Our housing manager spoke to Jay only yesterday, and none of the issues that have been highlighted were mentioned yesterday, or at any other time. That is why we are surprised to hear he is not happy. We will contact Jay and offer to meet to discuss his concerns.

 “Supported accommodation does have a higher cost than general needs homes. However, those costs include other living expenses that would be paid separately in general needs homes.

“In addition to the rent, included in the cost for Peter Street is council tax, water rates, internet/wi-fi, staffing costs and all other things like furniture, bedding, appliances, etc.”