Protests erupted outside a South London council office on January 21 in support of Michelle, a 50-year-old disabled mother struggling to leave her second-floor flat. For 24 years, Michelle has faced immense difficulty accessing basic services due to severe arthritis and multiple health issues that force her to rely on a wheelchair and crutches. Despite previous commitments from Southwark Council for suitable housing adaptations, recent changes within the housing department have led to a withdrawal of promises, prompting community union ACORN Southwark to demand accountability from local authorities for better housing solutions for Michelle's needs.
Michelle herself was unable to attend the protest due to her multiple health issues, including chronic back pain and lupus. Michael, an ACORN Southwark member, said: "Our member Michelle has been waiting for years to be moved to safe, suitable housing for her disabilities."
The council is saying it's my fault why I'm not able to be rehoused rather than realizing all the properties they are giving me aren't suitable.
Last year, the council made a commitment to give her a direct offer of safe suitable housing. But the new officers have gone back on that commitment.
The rhetoric [from Southwark] has totally changed since the restructuring of the housing department. They have done a 180 [degree turn] on me.
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