A Ribbleton couple facing a terminal cancer diagnosis and ongoing serious health challenges say they are shocked and deeply disappointed by the lack of action to address longstanding issues in their home.
They’ve been living with persistent mould problems in their Community Gateway Association property since 2018, with documented evidence dating back to 2020. During this period, the husband received a terminal diagnosis of oesophageal cancer, adding urgency to the need for their living conditions to be made safe and healthy.
The couple say the conditions in the home are taking a serious toll on both of their health. The wife has experienced multiple chest infections, which she believes are directly linked to the ongoing mould problem. She also lives with osteoarthritis, a condition that is aggravated by cold and damp environments, making their current living situation even more difficult to cope with.
“Since I’ve been in this this room I’ve had a number of chest infections. Never had any problems at all before.”
Community Gateway Association has acknowledged the presence of mould in the property and said they have made attempts to carry out remedial work but were not allowed access. However, the couple say that similar treatments have already been done on three separate occasions, none of which have provided a lasting solution.
With the husband now preparing to undergo chemotherapy, they are calling for urgent rehousing, believing temporary relocation is the only way the issue can be properly addressed without further risking their health.
“I’m angry, upset, appalled, and utterly disgusted with how we’ve been treated—especially after my partner’s diagnosis,” the wife said. “The worst part was when someone told me our chances of being rehoused would improve after my husband passes away. I’ll never forget that.”
Ribbleton Labour councillors Pat Varty and Jonathan Saksensa, of Preston City Council, have been actively supporting the couple in their efforts to have the situation resolved.
Councillor Varty told Blog Preston: “Painting over the mould doesn’t solve the problem. After a few weeks, it just comes back. The housing association needs to step up and act in the best interests of this family. The most appropriate course of action would be to help them move into a clean, mould-free home while the husband undergoes treatment.”
Despite the seriousness of the couple’s health conditions, Community Gateway Association has confirmed it currently has no plans to relocate them.
Louise Mattinson, Executive Director of Customers and Communities at CGA, said in a statement:
“At Community Gateway Association (CGA), we take all reports of damp and mould extremely seriously and take action to address all instances where it is reported to us.”
Source: Blog Preston, July 2025
