Oldham mother struggles to feed children after fleeing abuse

Jane, whose name has been changed to protect her anonymity, left her violent household two weeks ago for the safety of her and her children. 

She sought help from Oldham Council to be placed in emergency housing and has now been moved to a hotel in Manchester, miles away from her home.

She says that when she asked to be moved closer to Oldham, the council told her there was no availability and that it could be up to 12 weeks before she can bid for a council house and that it may be up to two years before they are able to move into a permanent home.

Oldham Council said that due to her anonymity, they can not comment on Jane's case specifically but staff were committed to supporting all victims of abuse.

They said the authority followed national guidelines for temporary housing, with cases regularly assessed based on need and availability.

The authority stressed that for anyone suffering abuse help and support is available and urged people to get in touch.

Jane said she has particularly struggled as two of her children are disabled, with one having dietary requirements, and her hotel accommodation does not have any cooking facilities she can access.  

She said: "I have two children with me who both have disabilities, one of which has been sick since he has been in the hotel as he is suffering from the change of environment, not knowing the area and the lack of hot food available.

"I am disappointed in the lack of support I have received from Oldham Council.

"I understand a lot of people are in the same situation- being homeless- but I have lived in Oldham all my life, worked and my children have been born and raised in Oldham."

Jane said she has asked what she is expected to feed her children while she is staying there and said she was told to buy kettle food, such as pot noodles and cup soups. 

She added Oldham Council told her to contact a food bank for help, but that she was given food which she had no way to prepare such as tinned beans, dried pasta and microwave rice.

The food package Jane received, with logo's blurred to protect her location (Image: Supplied)

She did stress that she appreciates the help from the food bank, but that it is unfortunately of no use to her.

One of Jane's children suffers from multiple disabilities, one of which is a sensory disability meaning he is unable to eat a range of foods. 

The room Jane and her family are staying in has two permanent beds, while one of them must sleep on a small, pop-up bed which has been added and also means space is limited. 

Jane has attempted to buy hot food her child is able to eat, but with limited funds she says this has been difficult. 

She said she has lived in Oldham all her life, and so have her children and that the recent move and the struggle that came with it has caused her youngest child to become ill. 

She said: "Having my child becoming so poorly while we have been here is heartbreaking.

"All I get told is we will try and get you a hotel in Oldham when one becomes available, but still two children with disabilities can live like this for up to two years."

Oldham Council said that due to her anonymity, they can not comment on Jane's case specifically but a spokesperson said: “Our staff are committed to supporting all victims of abuse.

“Our housing team are trained to help survivors of domestic abuse as their safety, and that of any children, is a priority.

“Like councils across the country we always try and allocate temporary housing that suits the needs of the individual or their family. This is done following national guidelines.

“Despite our best efforts this is not always possible because suitable properties may not be available.

“We regularly assess the needs of people living in temporary accommodation and if a suitable property comes available we will move them as soon as we can. Again this can take time.

“Everyone has the right to be safe and happy, if you’re living with an abusive partner help and support is available so we would urge you to get in touch.”