Paul Kershaw, Unite the Union housing workers branch chair
Akram Mohamed died at four months old in a damp mould-ridden housing association flat. His parents spoke to demonstrators outside Notting Hill Genesis (NHG) head office on 6 June.
An independent report found that NHG had failed in its duty to ensure the property was “fit for human habitation.” It found mould in every room, and that defective extractor fans in the kitchen and bathroom were “causing excessive airborne moisture.”
Protesters expressed their solidarity with the family, and profound condolences.
The parents said Akram struggled with the conditions. They explained that nobody would stay in the flat, because of the conditions. But no one from NHG helped, despite repeated requests for repairs. As Mrs Mohamed said: “If they just fixed those issues, maybe he had a chance to live.”
Other residents described their frustrating struggles to get NHG to do basic repairs. Sometimes delays stretched over months and years.
Took over their life
They described how poor living conditions come to dominate their lives, and impact on mental health. The lack of response that Akram’s parents encountered was echoed in the experiences of many protesters.
The protest was jointly organised by Unite the Union housing workers’ branch (LE1111) and SHAC (Social Housing Action Campaign). Unite organises workers in a number of housing associations.
Our union members often express frustration that they are pressured to address dampness and mould in the quickest and cheapest way possible, rather than addressing underlying causes. Often, outside contractors – who have no long-term commitment to the service – are used for cheapness.
Numerous speakers said they felt that NHG could no longer be seen as a charity. It had become a money-orientated business.
The mood was serious as protesters marked the death of a baby. But there was a positive sense that they had come together, and would not let NHG off the hook.
Other NHG residents should contact SHAC to get involved in future campaigns.
The head office was shut on the day of the protest, and there was a notice saying this was because of repairs. Many felt the real reason was to avoid their tenants and residents!
Journalists covering the event commented that they would have to be very careful in reporting the event, as NHG had threatened legal action. Residents felt this typified the approach of bosses at NHG.
