Pensioners to be Evicted by Christmas

18/07/2007

Dozens of vulnerable pensioners in sheltered housing have been told they must leave their homes by the Christmas party season.

The announcement was made on Monday to the 45 residents of Daniel Gooch House, Rodbourne Road, and Avenel Court, Thomas Street, both in the Swindon area.

Head of service delivery for Anchor Retirement Housing, Helen Orford, blamed low demand for studio flats for the decision: "Taking into account their age, facilities and the difficulties we have had attracting new tenants, sadly we have no alternative but to close the schemes. We will work closely with our tenants over the coming months to help them find alternative accommodation as we realise the situation is bound to cause concern and upset. We will do all we can to minimise any worry."

But the assurances are unlikely to bring any Christmas party cheer to residents including Jackie Mason, 72, who said: "We feel as though we have just been thrown on the heap. They are saying ‘go where you like’, but how are we going to find anywhere near here?”

Councillors who represent the area on Swindon Council said they were disappointed by Anchor's decision.
Anchor Housing has promised to help people wanting to stay in the area with applications to other housing associations, but there it is not likely there will be many Christmas party celebrations this year for the pensioners affected.