BackSCIENCE_HEALTH
My baby scratches and scratches: Families say their homes are making their children sick
Two families in England are living in temporary housing described as unhealthy, with mould, damp and pests affecting children. The report highlights health concerns linked to housing, references a 2025 law on repairs, and notes ongoing housing pressures.
Why It Matters
The piece underscores health risks for children in temporary housing and the policy response surrounding urgent repairs and housing reform in England.
Timeline
4 Events
Article published detailing health problems linked to temporary accommodation
April 23, 2026
The article documents health problems linked to temporary accommodation across England, including cases in Newham and Tower Hamlets. It notes responses from councils and Shelter, highlights the link between poor housing and child health, and references a separate report on deaths of children in temporary accommodation between 2019 and 2025.
Awaab's Law takes effect
2025
Awaab's Law comes into effect, requiring social landlords in England to repair urgent hazards within 24 hours and address significant hazards from damp and mould.
Moved to a Slough flat after relocation by Newham Council
April 2024
Nestere Yehdego and his family are living in a one-bedroom flat in Slough after being moved from east London by Newham Council; the flat has had mould and damp, affecting their health and daily life.
Samuels becomes homeless while pregnant
2019
Alicia Samuels, aged 40, becomes homeless while pregnant in 2019, leading to multiple temporary accommodation placements for her and her son Aeon over the following years.