Mother Fears for Son’s Health as Mould Infests Council Home

A 29-year-old mother from Cardiff is voicing serious concerns about the health of her four-year-old son, as mould and dampness permeate their council home. Kayeigh Ackerman fears that the ongoing issues could exacerbate her son’s respiratory problems, which have already led to a diagnosis of asthma.

Kayeigh, who moved into her council flat in the Plasnewydd area in April 2024, first noticed damp patches on the walls shortly after her arrival. The situation escalated around three months ago when a leak from the flat above caused a chunk of plasterboard to fall from the bathroom ceiling, narrowly missing her son, Billy.

“It’s been crazy, absolutely crazy,” Kayeigh stated. She explained that the mould has spread beyond the bathroom, damaging personal items such as towels and bedding, which she ultimately had to dispose of. A television fell off the wall in her bedroom due to the deteriorating condition of the wall.

Billy, now sleeping in his mother’s bed due to damp bedding, has faced health challenges since the family moved in. He requires an asthma pump four times daily and is currently battling a respiratory infection that has left him on medication. According to Kayeigh, doctors have suggested that the presence of black mould in their home could be contributing to his health issues, including low iron levels leading to anaemia.

The emotional toll on Kayeigh has been severe. She recalls the trauma of losing her first child, who was stillborn in 2017, and fears for Billy’s safety. “Whenever he’s ill or anything, I’ve got major trauma,” she said. Kayeigh expressed her anxiety, revealing that she often rushes Billy to the hospital at the slightest sign of illness.

The situation is reminiscent of the tragic case of two-year-old Awaab Ishak, who died in 2020 from respiratory complications linked to mould exposure in his home. His death prompted new legislation in the UK compelling social housing landlords to address health and safety hazards, including damp and mould, promptly.

Kayeigh reported that three inspectors visited her home last week and concluded that the property was unfit for habitation. Initially, she was promised relocation to temporary accommodation within ten days. However, this decision was later revoked due to a prior inspection that deemed the property safe, despite the worsening conditions.

“I’ve packed my flat up. I’m literally ready to move,” she said, expressing her frustration at the lack of communication and swift action from the council. Following further discussions, Cardiff council arranged temporary accommodation for Kayeigh and her son on the evening of October 3, 2023. Still, uncertainty remains regarding the duration of their stay, leaving Kayeigh anxious about whether they will have to return to their mould-infested home.

A spokesperson for Cardiff council addressed the situation, stating,

“We’re very sorry about the issues Ms Ackerman has been experiencing. The problem has been caused by a bathroom leak in the property above her home, which we’ve been working hard to fix since it was reported in August.”

The spokesperson assured that the council is committed to ensuring the family’s safety and comfort during this challenging time.

As Kayeigh navigates these alarming circumstances, her primary concern remains her son’s health and well-being in a home that has become a source of distress.