I am a resident of Glasgow who has lived in my current home since 2007. Originally, I was on the tenancy agreement as a joint tenant. However, last year, I moved out and had to remove myself from the tenancy for a short period of time. In December, I returned to my home and have been living here since. Heartbreakingly, both of my grandparents (joint tenants) have since passed away. Not only has this been my family home for the majority of my life, but my grandparents took custody of me at a very young age and I’m now grieving the loss of them. To be removed from my home and made homeless would have a devastating impact on my mental health. 

I approached the Housing Association about succeeding the tenancy but was denied on the grounds that I had only been back for five months. This decision overlooks my long history with this property and fails to consider the emotional toll an eviction would take on me at this time.

My GP has provided supporting evidence detailing the severe impact eviction would have on my mental health. Yet despite this compelling evidence, no change in decision has been made by the Housing Association.

In Scotland alone there are over 14 thousand households assessed as homeless or threatened with homelessness each year (Scottish Government). We must not add more individuals to these statistics unnecessarily.

We call upon our local government and housing associations to reconsider their policies regarding succession of tenancies after bereavement - particularly when medical professionals highlight potential harm caused by eviction.

Please sign this petition if you believe that long-standing residents like myself should be allowed to continue their tenancies after such tragic circumstances occur.

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