By
Amelia Yarde Ellis
JORDAN
Crich, 20, of Broxtowe Road in Aspley, Nottingham was yesterday denied
accommodation from Nottinghamshire County Council due to being a student.
 |
| Jordan Crich says he is "at a loss". |
“I
came back from my first year of university in May to a ‘sold’ sign outside my
house. I was told to find somewhere to live, and went to the council for
help. They told me because I am a student and receive a student loan they do
not need to help me and sent me away.”
During
the holidays student tenancies end around June, whereupon they are expected to
spend summer back at home with families.
Luckily,
a friend has now allowed him to stay in their home whilst he finds his feet.
“I
was told to go and live in my student house in Bristol, but the tenancy doesn’t
start until September. I’m getting myself an education; I’m not a scrounger
doing nothing. But if I were, they would have helped. It seems backwards.”
A
spokesperson from housing charity, Shelter
said: “The council’s negative decision draw in factors such as he has no
dependent children or is not deemed ‘vulnerable’. However, the council are legally
still obligated to give advice.
Our advice
would be to look at hostels.”
Whilst
Mr Crich says he understands housing is expensive and there may be a lack of funding,
he argues that everyone in need should be entitled for support. He is looking
into privately renting but is unqualified for housing benefit and limited
without a guarantor.
“I
just think it’s disgusting I was left to sleep on the street.”
A Nottingham City Council spokesperson said:
"The help we are able to offer is set out by Government legislation. This
student has been left in an unusual situation and we would advise Jordan to
talk to his welfare officer at university who may be able to offer practical
advice in this circumstance."
For help and advice on homelessness, please contact Shelter on free on 0808 800 4444 or visit their webpage: england.shelter.org.uk
