Charlotte, a disabled woman from Somerset living with fibromyalgia, has endured unimaginable living conditions for over a year. Due to her chronic pain and limited mobility, she has been unable to access the only bathroom in her home, which is located upstairs. This has forced her to use a jug for toileting and clean herself with wet wipes and sink washes, as she has had no access to a hot shower during this time.
The bathroom situation worsened as Charlotte’s condition progressed. Despite requesting assistance from her housing association, Abri, she was denied relocation because her ex-partner’s name remains on the lease—even though he no longer lives there. When she sought temporary solutions, such as using an empty property for showering once a week or requesting a rent reduction to afford a gym membership for showers, she was refused.
Abri reportedly suggested fitting a commode in her kitchen but rejected other practical solutions. They also directed her to a local homeless shelter for showers, only for her to be turned away due to not being homeless. When Charlotte expressed frustration about her predicament, a housing officer shockingly suggested that she should just “p*** herself.”
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The impact on Charlotte has been severe. She has suffered multiple urinary tract infections due to inadequate hygiene and has experienced profound emotional distress and depression as a result of her untenable living conditions.
Only recently, on March 31, did Abri agree to remove her ex-partner from the lease and allow a mutual exchange, a development Charlotte describes as “a light at the end of the tunnel.” Yet, after more than a year of suffering, she remains anxious about the outcome and is still confined to her current home.
Jim Bruckel, Abri’s Regional Assistant Director for the South West, acknowledged the situation, stating the organization prioritizes tenants’ wellbeing and is working to support Charlotte’s move to a more suitable home. In the meantime, support from an Occupational Therapist and interim aids are being provided.
Charlotte’s story highlights the critical need for accessible housing and responsive support systems for disabled individuals facing everyday challenges.