A family of five in Rotherham, comprising parents Amy Winter and Joshua Thain along with their three children, is facing eviction from their residence on Brunswick Street in Thurnscoe. This unfortunate situation has arisen due to unpaid rent, and they have been ordered to vacate the property by January 31, following several months of missed rent payments. Amy and Joshua, both of whom are on Universal Credit, assert that Barnsley Council was aware of their dire circumstances but did not provide any assistance.
Amy, who is currently five months pregnant, has spoken about the difficulties they are enduring, stating, “It’s that bad we don’t go out or anything because we’re worried.” She has attempted to seek help from family members but has found limited options due to their own housing situations. The couple’s only source of support comes from Joshua’s uncle, who resides at a considerable distance.
The property in question is owned by Sanctuary Housing, and the tenancy was originally in the name of Joshua’s late mother, Victoria Robertshaw. Tragically, Victoria passed away in August after contracting Covid-19.
The uncertain future of this family raises significant questions about the response of the council to their distressing predicament.
