Outrage as council grab rent from fire victims
FAMILIES evacuated from their homes after the Grenfell disaster are still being charged rent.
The latest gaffe by Kensington and Chelsea Council emerged yesterday when it was revealed residents who fled the inferno had rent taken from their accounts last week.
Residents in adjoining blocks who had to move out because they do not have water or electricity are also still having money taken by standing orders.
After being contacted by the Sunday Mirror a council spokesman apologised and promised refunds.
The council said residents in flats immediately surrounding the tower will not have to pay rent until a review next January.
Weekly rents start at £115 for studios rising up to £189 for three-bedroomed flats.
TRAUMA
Joe Beswick, of the Radical Housing Network, which includes the Grenfell Action Group, said: “The callousness of this council knows no bounds.
“We know hundreds of residents are staying in unsuitable hotel accommodation still having to pay their council rent.
“The trauma of the entire Lancaster West community is unimaginable.”
A council spokesman said: “We are very sorry. If anyone has had money inadvertently taken we will make arrangements to have it refunded immediately.
“We are focused on the needs of all affected residents.
“Some have already returned home. We expect to have the hot water supply restored during the next week so anybody else who wants to go back home can do so.
“We will continue to provide temporary accommodation for those that don’t want to return.”