Wandsworth Council pays compensation after years of inadequate housing for disabled resident

Wandsworth Council in South London was found by the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman to have failed to move a disabled resident, referred to as Miss X, for over two and a half years after deeming her temporary accommodation unsuitable. The woman reported a leak that left her unable to use her kitchen and complained about the council's slow response, which adversely affected her physical and mental health.

The council offered an alternative property in January, which Miss X declined as unsuitable and unaffordable. The council has agreed to apologise and pay £6,300 in compensation, plus an additional £350 per month for up to six months until suitable accommodation is provided.