Housing Crisis Has 'Devastating' Impact On Disabled People, Warns Charity

A charity has highlighted the "devastating" impact that the housing crisis is having on disabled people in England, with some being forced to choose between struggling in an unsuitable property or racking up huge debts attempting to adapt it. Muscular Dystrophy UK, which compiled the report, said there is an alarming lack of accessible housing in many parts of the country. It found that some councils in England have more than 100 households waiting for wheelchair-accessible homes. The charity said that a lack of wheelchair-accessible housing is having a "devastating impact on households". Read more on the Express & Star website.

Tenants Hit By Bedroom Tax Suffer Range Of Health Problems

According to the first study of the health impact of the controversial welfare policy, tenants affected by the bedroom tax report high levels of stress, anxiety, hunger, poor diet, and depression. The study finds that worries around debt, rent arrears and the prospect of being forced to move from their family home produced a sense of “hopelessness verging on desperation”. They reported being trapped in a “vicious cycle” of loneliness and isolation; they could often no longer afford to go to the pub or cafe, or even carry out family roles such as grandparenting.  Read more on the Guardian website.