The city council’s housing convener has admitted he is horrified at the appalling conditions a vulnerable Dundee teenager has been living in.
Councillor John Alexander said he was genuinely shocked at the state of the council bedsit in Menzieshill that has been Amy Collins’ home since the spring.
However, he has personally promised her that he will ensure that everything possible is done to help Amy and resolve her housing issues.
Amy, 17, moved into the bedsit in Luther Place in May after moving from a hostel.
However, the horrendous condition of her new home led to her feeling depressed and at times even suicidal.
Not able to cope, she began to self-harm and couldn’t see a way forward.
Amy said: “I was really excited about getting my own place and really thought this was to be the start of the rest of my life.”
However, her dreams of a safe and happy future quickly turned into a nightmare as she began to realise the appalling condition of the flat.
She said: “The flat was dirty when I moved in, with blood splattered on the kitchen walls but I cleaned it up and tried to make it as nice as possible.
“However, before long the condition of the bedsit just got worse and worse. Horrible black mould was spread on all the walls, and even though I kept washing them and opened the windows, it kept spreading.
“The flat is damp and cold and living here has been a nightmare. I also have asthma, which was made worse by the condition of the flat and I ended up so depressed and unhappy.”
Mr Alexander said: “I really feel for Amy and can assure her that we will be working with her to sort out these issues and support her going forward, should she wish that support.
“Officers have visited the property and I have discussed the works that will take place over the coming days with Amy.
“It’s always concerning to hear of situations where a tenant is in distress and it is vital that where is a problem or support needed they contact us as early as possible.
“We’ve got teams to tackle issues whether they’re financial, mental health or problems with the house itself.”