A Whitehaven couple who are disabled and suffer from mental health problems have raised concerns about their home.

Peter and Lisa Smith of Yewbarrow Close in Mirehouse claim their house, provided by Home Group, isn't safe for them.

This is due to a 'damaged' fence in the front garden, there being 'no handrail' in the front and backyard, and rising dampness in their kitchen.

Home Group has said the handrail is set to be installed but health and safety concerns inside the house must be addressed before contractors can start work on the damp.

Whitehaven News: The path in the back yard with no handrail The path in the back yard with no handrail (Image: Newsquest)

Peter Smith said: "We've been living here since 2021, we pay our rent but feel like we're being discriminated against.

"The house is completely falling apart and needs an upgrade.

"We've had problems with dampness, mold, rust, leaking, the fence not being put into place, and all other things. 

"The front door and back door are damaged and haven't been replaced. We're both disabled my wife has learning difficulties and I have mental health problems, including anxiety and depression. 

Whitehaven News: Damp inside the kitchen Damp inside the kitchen (Image: Newsquest)

"These issues have been affecting us since December 2022. My wife has a letter from the doctor telling her that she shouldn't be in a house with damp.

"We're concerned for our own safety.

"What we'd like to see done is a complete revamp with new windows, new doors, and everything is completely rotten.

"We've had issues with previous properties that we've lived in being affected by damp, this isn't the first time.

Whitehaven News: Damp flooring in the hallway Damp flooring in the hallway (Image: Newsquest)

"We think someone should step in and help because the work isn't being done."

Louise Barkes, head of maintenance at Home Group, said: “In terms of the dampness issue, we have tried to resolve the issue for some time but because of health and safety concerns it was not feasible for contractors to do the work.

"We have advised our customers what they need to do to ensure a safe workplace for the contractors.

Whitehaven News: The damaged fence in the front garden The damaged fence in the front garden (Image: Newsquest)

“With regards to the handrails, a job has been booked for August 16 to repair the handrails at the back of the house and to the right-hand side of the front. Our customers will be aware of this.

“We are more than happy to investigate the condition of the fence to ensure it is safe.”