'Nan could be on streets if council cannot help'

A mum-of-four has warned that her elderly, unwell nan could be "living on the streets" if the local council cannot find the family a home soon.

Nina Darbey, from Boughton Monchelsea, Kent, has privately rented her home for six years and lives with her three teenage children and grandmother, who has schizophrenia, vascular dementia and heart failure.

The family were told they must move out as the landlord is selling the property.

Maidstone Borough Council said it would "continue to work with the household".

Ms Darbey says she is unable to afford a property of the same size in the area and is now in a race against time to find a council property, which has so far been unsuccessful.

The 46-year-old works as an independent travel agent and runs a small cleaning company while receiving a carer's allowance to help look after her grandmother.

Working more hours could make her ineligible for the benefits.

"My nan was given a couple of weeks to live in September 2023 so I wanted her to come live with me, I didn't want her to die in a care home," Ms Darbey told the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

"I have two carers four times a day, social workers coming in and out to check on her, occupational health and doctors."

The family are trying to find a council property that can accommodate them.

Maidstone Borough Council has said the family need a five-bedroom home.

Ms Darbey said: "I can't find any five-bed houses that have come up to bid on the council housing portal.

"I asked if we can go down to a four bed but the council will not allow this.

"They've now told me they're looking outside the borough but this would destroy the children who are doing their exams and I'd need to change carers. I'd have to refuse if it was too far away.

"This could end with my nan living in a hospital bed on the streets with me and the kids – we're really desperate. Ridiculously desperate."

A spokesperson for the council said: "We are aware of this case and will continue to work with the household to try and prevent homelessness.

"The council will seek to support with temporary accommodation advice and navigating private rent, and encourages the family to get in touch."

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