Norwich City Council housing crisis slated by homeless woman

Rachel Benham was threatened with homelessness after having to leave her home, in Heigham Street, in December last year.

The 50-year-old says she is one of many victims of a "national housing crisis" and that she is being charged £1,000 per month rent at a house of multiple occupancy (HMO) nearby.

Rachel explained: "I was living in a privately-owned house with my partner and their two children before we had to leave due to damp and mould.

"I tried speaking to the council about rehoming me but was told I was only entitled to shared housing.

Rachel and her partner had to leave their home in Heigham Street after damp and mould were found (Image: Google Maps)

"So I shortly moved to a HMO in Old Laundry Court, with four other people, but the rent was extortionate and was evicted by the land lady for a list of petty 'offences' just two months later.

"I've since been having to sofa surf around Norwich and because I don't have a permanent residential address I lost my job in security work. 

"Me and my partner also broke up over the stress of everything.

"When trying to speak to the council I've been met with persistent challenges and walls which keep getting put up in front of me.

Rachel Benham, 50, says she is currently having to sofa surf to stop herself living on the street (Image: Rachel Benham)

"I'm frustrated because I keep getting fobbed off and I want someone to listen - I feel like I'm being punished instead of being helped.

"I've had enough of the housing system in the city and the whole situation has driven me to the edge."

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Norwich City Council has not responded to requests for comment on the matter.

Rachel added the city is part of a wider, national housing crisis, sweeping the UK, saying: "It should be a human right to have a roof over your head.

"It's really bad in and around the city, but it's also a national crisis and I won't be the only one suffering from this."

Rachel briefly moved into a house of multiple occupancy (HMO) but said rent and bills were extortionate (Image: Google Maps)

Help for the homeless

National homelessness charity Shelter offers advice to those in difficulty.

They advise: "Ask for homeless help if you're homeless now, or could be in the next eight weeks.

"Most people can get some help from the council's homeless team.

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"Some people can get emergency housing. For example, homeless families with children. Or other homeless people who could have a priority need."

City Hall in Norwich (Image: Denise Bradley/Newsquest)

Norwich City Council describes the demand for social housing as "extremely high" in the city with a waiting list making it "unlikely" that those who have access to a "suitable" home would be successful in applying.

They advise: "If you have lost your home or think you're likely to become homeless in the future you should contact our housing advice team as early as possible.

"This team provides practical support and advice and will work with partner agencies to provide alternative housing solutions or prevent homelessness occurring."