The Impact of Housing Disrepair on Children

The detrimental effects on children’s health and welfare make housing disrepair a major issue. Smaller airways mean that children and babies are more susceptible to the health consequences of mould. Condensation is the leading cause of mould in homes across the UK. Usually, it affects places with excessive moisture in the house, such bathrooms and kitchens. Children from underprivileged backgrounds are more prone to experience a range of negative health impacts as well as psychological and emotional strain.

Physical Health Issues

Children who live in damp, poorly ventilated homes or with mould are more prone to develop bronchitis and asthma. The World Health Organisation estimates that mould and damp raises children’s risk of respiratory disease by as much as 50%. The presence of vermin, pests and rodents, especially in abandoned homes, can be dangerous to human health since they can transmit diseases such as allergies and infections. To know more, read the four main health impacts of mould.

Emotional and Psychological Effects

Living in deteriorated surroundings could affect children’s mental state. Children whose homes are unfit are more likely to be depressed and nervous, according to a Shelter research Their academic performance may also suffer from lack of sleep and continuous worry about their safety.

Developmental Delays

Poor living circumstances could impede a child’s growth. While social interaction and physical exercise are very vital for good development, they can be quite restricted in dangerous play areas or when children come across dangerous circumstances. Absences from school and chronic illness further hinder cognitive and intellectual growth. Research shows that school problems are 25% more likely among children whose parents have lesser earnings.

Social Implications

Kids from substandard housing are more likely to be bullied and experience feelings of isolation because of stigma. Inviting people over could make one embarrassed and affect their social life or self-esteem. The social marginalisation merely makes things worse for individual’s mental and emotional well-being.

Tragic Consequences of Housing Disrepair

In December 2020, two-year-old Awaab Ishak died after prolonged exposure to mould in his home. He lived in a one-bedroom flat in Rochdale with his father Faisal Abdullah and his wife Aisha Amin. Mr. Abdullah informed Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH) about the mould in 2017, but they advised him to just paint over it. Shortness of breath brought Awaab to Rochdale Urgent Care Centre on December 19, 2020; he passed away a few days afterwards in that flat. According to the investigations, he left too soon from serious mold-induced respiratory problems. This tragedy emphasises the need of municipalities and owners fixing damaged property immediately to prevent such horrible results and preserve the health of already weak and sensitive children.

How SilverOak Solicitors Can Help

SilverOak Solicitors can assist if you find that the state of your house compromises the health of your child. You could rely on SilverOak Solicitors to help you claim for house disrepair and guarantee that landlords answerable for the required repairs. We will be very careful to make sure you get the money you are legally entitled to and that your living circumstances get better so safeguarding your health and future.