Hackney locals are protesting after a home for disabled workers was rented out on Airbnb, sparking anger and calls for action.
Hackney: So, there’s this big uproar in Hackney, right? A home meant for a disabled key worker got rented out to holidaymakers on Airbnb, and folks are not happy about it.
People gathered outside the bungalow, waving banners and demanding the tenant be kicked out. They’ve noticed a bunch of different people showing up with suitcases since September.
The place is listed for £164 a night, which is pretty wild considering it’s supposed to be for someone who really needs it. Mary Pimm, a local campaigner, said this isn’t just about one house; it’s a bigger issue happening in several boroughs.
She mentioned a nearby tenant with health issues who could really use that home since it’s step-free. It’s just not fair that people like him are missing out.
Now, Airbnb has put the listing on hold while Hackney Council and the housing association, Peabody, look into it. There’s even a police investigation going on.
Mary said everyone is really upset and feels like the council has been slow to act. Alan Bryce from the Tenancy Fraud Forum pointed out that there are about 50,000 social homes in London facing some kind of fraud.
He stressed that this isn’t a victimless crime; families in temporary housing are the ones suffering. Hackney Council is taking this seriously, especially since so many people need affordable homes.
Peabody, the housing association, is also on it, saying they’re against anyone fraudulently taking homes meant for those in need. They’re working with various agencies to sort this out.
Airbnb chimed in too, saying hosting in social housing is often illegal and they’ve suspended the listing while helping with the investigation. They’re reminding hosts to follow local rules and are committed to tackling this kind of fraud.
