Resolve to see change in Awaab’s name

MY THOUGHTS and love continue to be with the family and friends of Awaab Ishak, following the little boy’s tragic death.

The loss of a son in such awful circumstances is simply too hard to imagine, too unbearable to contemplate.

I was proud to attend a vigil in Rochdale recently in Awaab’s memory. It was a moving and emotional occasion, with Awaab’s family and friends joined by residents, community campaigners and local councillors.

I spoke at the vigil, offering my condolences to Awaab’s family and stressing the importance that such an awful and avoidable tragedy, which happened on the watch of Rochdale Boroughwide Housing’s chief executive, should never ever happen again.

I was pleased the board of RBH took the decision to sack their chief executive, but they have to do an awful lot more, quickly, to provide reassurance that the safety and protection of tenants is their number one priority. Our residents want to see real action, not just words.

I recently joined Conservative group leader, Councillor John Taylor, in writing to Michael Gove MP, secretary of state for levelling up, housing and communities. We set out the unsatisfactory performance of RBH, clearly set out by the coroner, in relation to this and other matters.

In light of the coroner’s findings, I agree that strengthening the decent homes standard must be prioritised alongside an update health and safety rating system. In addition, Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) on behalf of our local authorities has developed, with government, a pilot that would provide new resources to improve housing standards. We understand the Secretary of State is supportive of working with us on this.

It was pleasing to see Mr Gove visit Rochdale last week to speak with Awaab’s family and councillors. I set out the importance of strengthening the rights of tenants and how the partnership between the government and GMCA can increase protections for people living in private rented accommodation and have the potential to greatly improve housing quality.

In terms of our local situation, we also proposed two measures that will radically transform the quality of services being provided to people currently living in RBH homes.

The first is that the housing stock managed by RBH is returned to the control of the local authority alongside the required funding.

The second is that alongside the investigation being carried out by the Housing Ombudsman, in a similar way that commissioners are appointed to failing councils, the government direct representatives of that body or the regulator Homes England to take temporary charge of RBH

SPRINGHILL LOTTERY

THE Springhill Hospice Lottery results for the week ending Friday, November 25, are: £1,000 148108 Rochdale until the organisation can regain the trust of its tenants, the council and government.

The vigil in the town centre movingly shone a light on the poor practices that had caused this tragedy. It has brought the community together, united as one, in their sadness at such a tragic loss but determined to see lasting change. Rest in peace, Awaab. £100 138252 Rochdale Plus 15 prizes of £10

To join the game ring 01706 631013