SOUTH Basildon MP James McMurdock has raised serious concerns about the accommodation provided to a family with three children by Basildon Council.

Following a visit by the MP's office, issues were identified regarding the suitability of the temporary housing, prompting questions about the Council's adherence to established housing standards and guidance.

Mr McMurdock says: "The Homelessness Code of Guidance is clear that bed and breakfast accommodation is unsuitable for families with children.

"It is widely acknowledged that such conditions can be detrimental to the health and development of children. Furthermore, when this type of accommodation is used, it must not exceed six weeks, and the Council is required to report these instances.

"In this case, we were contacted by a family placed in what we believe to be bed and breakfast-style accommodation for significantly longer than the legally allowed six-week period. Basildon Council assured us that the accommodation provided is a self-contained family room. However, after my team's visit, we have serious concerns regarding the interpretation of this definition and the family's living conditions."

The MP's office reported issues of overcrowding, insufficient sleeping arrangements, and inadequate cooking facilities after inspecting the property in question.

"We found one adult and three children sharing a small room with a double bed, a bunk bed, and the eldest child sleeping on the floor. The only available cooking facility was a microwave, with no suitable space to prepare food or wash and dry clothes."

Further concerns were raised about the location of the property in an area known for serious crime, including prostitution and drug use. McMurdock added:

"We are deeply concerned about the surrounding environment and the potential dangers to vulnerable families placed there. When we raised this point with the council, their response was: 'It should be noted, however, that they (the landlord) are only responsible for the conduct of the people occupying the accommodation and have little power over what happens outside the premises.' Clearly, this misses the point."

Mr McMurdock MP confirmed he will be meeting with the Chief Executive of Basildon Council to address these concerns directly:

"There are several serious questions at play here. First, there are doubts as to whether the accommodation provided meets the legal and welfare standards required for families with children.

"My staff, who are experienced in such matters, do not believe it does.

"Second, by placing a microwave in this single room, has the landlord and the council attempted to game the system by making minimal alterations to reclassify what is clearly a B&B as a self-contained unit?

"Third, is there also a failure to safeguard the taxpayer? Self-contained units are charged at a significantly higher rate than for a single room.

"My staff believe this is one example of serious failings within the department. At the very least, this situation highlights the need for more stringent oversight of temporary accommodation."

"We will continue to monitor this case closely, and if necessary, we are prepared to escalate this issue to the Housing Ombudsman and the Minister for Housing."

McMurdock concluded by urging any constituents experiencing similar issues to contact his office:

"If any of my constituents are living in substandard temporary accommodation, I urge you to reach out to my office so we can advocate on your behalf."