MP WATSON CHAMPIONS BEREAVED WOMAN FACING EVICTION

23-02-2008

West Bromwich East MP Tom Watson has vowed to take up the case of Shirley Geraghty – the Wednesbury woman threatened with eviction from her home of 47 years following the death of her parents.

Watson read about Shirley’s plight on The Stirrer and believes that Sandwell Homes – the arms-length organisation who manage the borough’s council housing – are misinterpreting the law.

They claim that the 1985 Housing Act prevents them allowing the tenancy of the three-bed semi to pass on to another family member – but the MP reckons they have room for flexibility without breaking the rules.

“It’s great news that he’s getting involved” Shirley said.

“It's very hard right now, but couldn’t have had better support”.

She has also been backed by her local councillor Elaine Costigan, and since we broke the story earlier this week, it’s been followed-up by both the Express and Star and BBC WM.

Meanhwhile Sandwell Homes, which has previously threatened legal action to enforce the eviction is now adopting a more conciliatory tone, and has acknowledged for the first time that Shirley may be entitled to stay.

Operations Director Adrian Scarrott said: “Sandwell Homes would first of all like to offer its sincere condolences to Ms Geraghty following the loss of her mother in January of this year.

“It is regrettable that we have to follow rules regarding succession of property in such circumstances but hope to take a sympathetic approach in reaching a resolution.

“Sandwell MBC's Legal Services Department is currently assessing whether Ms Geraghty is entitled to remain at her parent's house on Kent Road.

“If by law Ms Geraghty is entitled to succeed the tenancy then she will of course be able to remain in the property.

“However, if Ms Geraghty is found not to be legally entitled to succeed the tenancy of the home then Sandwell Homes will work with her to find alternative suitable accommodation."