Lady and cats living in tent outside Balham library/Waitrose Post Reply

[Goldhawk]

She is blocking the bike racks and the access and the ventilation to the electricity substation
She cannot remain there long term

[jorigby]

Who would want to have a door way as their permanent address? It's an appalling situation in one of the wealthiest cities in the world.

[Samalawl]

I'm really saddened by this post I'm in Battersea and don't go to Balham so not sure what help I could be but if there is anything I can do please shout. Sometimes in life things take a dramatic turn and we find ourselves in situations we wouldn't have ever thought possible. I'm glad this lady has you all looking out for her at least xx

[parsleysong]

I wasn't able to post recently because my laptop crashed, causing all sorts of knock-on effects. Yes she is the same lady who begs at the back door of Balham Sainsburys - I hadn't recognised her when talking through the tent mesh. I now get the impression from talking to her and further info that she is entrenched in her ways and difficult to help long-term. Also, makes it hard that she's got the cats as I hear that most hostels won't take homeless people with animals. I think if I was sleeping rough I'd also want a cat/s, dog/s but it makes you much harder to help. Looks like there are all sorts of problems going on in the mix, but she's making her own choices that make her difficult to help, when evidently there is help around.

[Jen66]

Sounds similar to the mother and son in Tooting, also sleeping outside a library

http://metro.co.uk/2017/09/13/desperate ... h-6923712/

[Wandsworth Council]

We are aware of this woman's situation and have been working hard for some time to engage with her, support her and most importantly try to persuade her to come in off the streets.

She does have a flat of her own in a neighbouring borough but unfortunately she’s refused to return there.

We are working with her existing landlord to ensure her tenancy remains in place and also liaising closely with homelessness outreach charities so that they can continue to support her too. We also passed on her details to Social Services in her home borough in August to gain their assistance and help.

Unfortunately though if people refuse to accept the help they are offered - they cannot be forced to.

Local people can rest assured that we will continue our efforts working alongside other agencies, charities and housing providers to reach a sensible and positive outcome to this difficult case.

[twomonkeys]

Very nice to hear the response from Wandsworth Council. Thank you!

[Goldhawk]

Will she ever move on though?
It's an ideal spot for making Waitrose shoppers and library users feel guilty and then they offer her cash and food

She doesn't need a place in a hostel if she already has a flat elsewhere