I believe I'm eligible for an extra bedroom due to my care needs. Does anyone have any advice?

Jkk20

Hi, I’m new here and I’m hoping someone can help me out? 

I am in receipt of Higher rate pip both components.

I live in a 2Bed House with my two children both boys and under 11. 

I have recently been refused a mutual exchange into a 3 bed property on the grounds that I will be significantly under occupying the property. 

I require a 3bed house as I depend on regular over night stays from my carer and it is not practical for my children to be sharing a room with my carer! 

As far as I am aware I am eligible for an extra bedroom as I have care needs. 

Is there anyone in this situation or been in it before that can give me any advise please it would be much appreciated!

Thank you

Jkk20

@Tori_Scope
@Libby_Scope
can either of you give me any advice please? 

Jkk20

Thank you I appreciate your reply. Take care @Teddybear12 😊

calcotti

Might be worth seeking advice from Shelter.

Jkk20

.

Alex_Scope

Hello @Jkk20 can I help with anything today? Did you mean to post a longer reply?

Jkk20

Hello @Alex_Scope, I’m struggling with a mutual exchange and wondered if there is any advise. I’m currently in a 2 bed property and put in an application for a mutual exchange into a 3bed property. I was refused on ground 3 under occupying. I have two children both boys aged 11 and 8. I also depend on regular overnight care. The council are saying I cannot exchange into a 3 bed property but they will not show me their policy or take into consideration that it’s not practical for my children to share a room with my carer. Thank you 

Alex_Scope

Thanks so much for explaining this for me @Jkk20 it sounds very frustrating. Has your carer been able to have much input in the situation with the council at all? 

I wonder if you have an occupational therapist who may be able to help? Discussing the issue with your GP would be useful either way, as it might also be impacting your mental health.

I'm afraid I'm coming to the end of my shift this evening, but when I'm back tomorrow, I will do what I can to share any helpful resources or further advice for you. 

I hope you have a good evening in the meantime, and take care for now.

Adrian_Scope

Hello @Jkk20. Was the mutual exchange with the same housing association / council that you're with currently?

If so, have you spoken to them directly evidencing your need for an extra bedroom? Allocation policy isn't always the same as benefit policy and they may need to update their system to show you're in need of a 3 bed to allow you to exchange for one.