Tenant facing eviction for arrears saved by donors
ATENANT had his eviction notice cancelled after generous people donated cash to help him out. Last week the Glasgow Times reported the case of Paul Dodwell who was facing losing his home unless he cleared the full amount of rent arrears by January 12.
He said he had fallen back on his rent after trying to juggle debts he had run up while not working during the Covid pandemic.
But after the Glasgow Times report, donations came in from individuals, a businessman and local people who wanted to help him stay in his home in Firhill.
A relieved Mr Dodwell emerged from the offices of Queens Cross Housing Association after he was able to hand over the money.
He said: “I’m glad it is over and done with.
“I want to thank everyone who helped me. There are so many good people out there.”
He said he is now in regular work and able to pay his rent.
The tenant was able to pay off the full amount of his arrears which ran to £ 3749.
Mr Dodwell had £ 1000 saved, because the association couldn’t accept rent after the eviction decree was granted last year.
A woman, who did not want to be named, donated
£ 1500 to help.
A local businessman, who also did not want to be named, gave £ 500 and the committee of a local youth football team which folded donated £ 500 from funds that were remaining.
A local community website gave £ 100 from funds it raises locally to help people in need.
While a woman from Castlemilk collected £ 80 from people who wanted to help out. A committee member of Westercommon Star, the football team, said: “We had money in the account and wanted to use it to do some good.
“We decided to give some to help Paul and will use the rest to help local community projects.” Alex O’Kane, of No1seems2care Facebook group, which gave £ 100, said: “We have local people donating money to go to good causes.
“This is people helping people.”
Sean Clerkin, housing campaigner, was helping represent Mr Dodwell.
He said: “If anyone is facing eviction they should seek help from Citizens Advice Scotland, Shelter or maybe a local church or community group. Don’t face it alone. “This is a victory for the generosity of readers of the Glasgow Times who helped after reading about Paul’s case.
“People have been so generous to help Paul avoid eviction.”
Queens Cross said on payment of the money it has cancelled the eviction decree and waived the court costs.
A spokesperson for Queens Cross Housing Association, said:” Mr Dodwell’s rent arrears have now been paid in full which is the best result for all concerned.
“As we have said before, evicting someone from their home is highly exceptional at Queens Cross and we have not needed to do so for rent arrears in the last five years.
“We’re obviously pleased that this has been resolved and would emphasise that eviction cases only come about after a long process of communication with the tenant and offering a range of support including reasonable payment options.”