Sharon Gray, 65, has lived in a council property in St Patrick's Close, Felling, for just over a month. She says the condition of the bungalow was not made clear before she moved in. Her mother, Ann Hannratty, described the state as 'entirely inappropriate' and expressed concern for her daughter's health, especially given her recent serious health issues.
Health concerns and unsuitable living conditions
Gray survived a stroke, heart attack and broken back last year. Ann said: 'My daughter is 65 and has moved into a bungalow in Felling - there have previously been, we've heard, three floods and it's been human waste coming up. The council has been refusing to move her out.'
She added: 'They have put her into this deplorable place. I have just walked in the door and the smell in this heat is atrocious. They have refused to do anything until August 18. The bathroom is supposed to be a wet room - the floor is coming up!'
Council response and planned repairs
Ann said Gray was told she would have to rely on a commode during the bathroom replacement. A Gateshead Council spokesperson said: 'Following an inspection of the property, we identified repairs are required to the tenant’s wet room, including replacement flooring.'
The work is scheduled to begin on Tuesday 18 August 2026, with the toilet temporarily removed from approximately 8am to 2pm on each of the two days when the floor is being renewed. The council added: 'This means the toilet will only be unavailable for a limited period during the working day.'
'We have been in regular contact with the tenant to discuss the planned works and how any disruption can be minimised. Given the short periods when the toilet will be unavailable, we have arranged for a commode to be provided so that facilities remain available if required while the work is being carried out.'
'We understand the concerns raised and will continue to work closely with the tenant and her family to ensure the repairs are completed as quickly as possible and to provide appropriate support throughout the process.'
