Services we do not need or use

WE moved into our current house in 2010 as we had a tied house and had to move out when we retired.

We had been on the deferred list for 16 years. We were only offered sheltered housing in the areas of our choice as we were over 60, although there were mainstream properties available.

We did not need sheltered housing services then or now, but had to accept the charges that came with it.

I joined the federation of housing, thinking they could maybe help with the charge of £5 a week for a shower being in the property, but was told it was what I had signed up for.

In one of the annual magazines it was stated that it had been agreed to stop the charge for kitchens and showers – I think it was to be in April 2011 but those paying would continue to pay.

I took this article to my councillor, who was Lesley Brennan, and she took it up with the relevant department and came back and said the charge would stay.

I then asked the housing department if I could put in my own shower cubicle and drop this weekly charge, but I was told even if I did this, I would still have to pay, as this charge was for the whole of my tenancy. I gave up after this.

I feel that I and many others are paying a service charge of £26.94 a week for services which we do not need or use, and many of us are still in employment.

They could switch off the cord system and if we needed it in later life it could be switched on again, and we would be happy to pay.

Until then, we will have to pay £26.94 plus £5 every week on top of our rent just to have a roof over our head.