Homelessness, Disrepair, and Their Impact on Children’s Health.
The Case of Dr Sridhar M Ramaiah.
In England, 1 in 85 children are homeless, with over 139,000 living in temporary accommodation. The primary cause? Section 21 evictions*, which continue to displace families across the country. The wait time to be rehoused in Newcastle has jumped from 28 weeks in December 2023 to a staggering 48 weeks in January 2024.
For children like Sarah's, homelessness isn't just a logistical challenge—it’s a health crisis. Persistent damp in their home, left unaddressed for almost a year, led to respiratory issues and required environmental health intervention. The delay in repairs highlights systemic negligence towards tenants, particularly vulnerable families.
The Physical and Emotional Toll
Research shows that homelessness has severe effects on children’s physical health and emotional well-being. Teachers report that displaced children struggle with feelings of instability and trauma. These experiences manifest as both emotional distress and problematic behaviour in schools. Without a stable home, children lose a critical foundation for their education and mental health.
Damp, Disrepair, and Young Children
The persistent damp and unsafe living conditions in temporary housing can have devastating effects on children’s health. Respiratory issues, like persistent coughs, are common. Yet, landlords often delay or avoid making necessary repairs, leaving families in unhealthy environments.
How Can We Help?
To combat the growing issue of homelessness and substandard housing, we must push for systemic changes. At Food and Solidarity, we not only provide essential support but also organize collective action to hold landlords accountable and demand better housing policies. Our work is about more than charity—it’s about solidarity with families like Sarah’s, ensuring they have safe, healthy homes.
Join us in fighting for housing justice. Get involved today by visiting www.foodandsolidarity.org/join and help make a difference.