Southern Housing Ignored Me for 2 Months — Until the Media Got Involved

Two months. That’s how long I waited for Southern Housing to fix my broken shower — a shower I repeatedly reported as a potential fire hazard.

And guess what? They only came out after media pressure forced their hand.

When the electrician finally took the socket off the wall, I saw the truth: burnt wiring, melted plastic — blackened and charred inside. All surrounded by drywall. He confirmed what I had been trying to tell Southern Housing for weeks: this was a serious fire risk.

And I live on the top floor. With no fire exits. With my baby.

If that had caught fire, how would we have escaped?

It’s beyond terrifying. And what’s worse? I know I’m not alone. Thousands of people in social housing are being ignored — left without heating, hot water, working toilets, safe electrics, or protection from infestations and mould. We’re told to wait. Told it’s “not urgent.” 

But the second the press steps in? They move. All they care about is making themselves look good, no sympathy or even following basic health and housing laws and getting away with it?!

This isn’t just poor management — this is neglect. This is dangerous. This is why we’re demanding action. They are putting life’s at risk.

I appreciate your continued and growing support! 

Antonia Wall