Homes chief steps into houses of multiple occupation debate

Cllr Jane Carter, housing and community safety

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MOs-houses of multiple occupation - have become the subject of concern, misconception and false narrative in the borough.

Cllr Jane Carter, South Tyneside Council's deputy leader and lead member housing and community safety, says they have a key role to play and that "prejudice should not shape policy".

As lead member for housing, I often hear concerns about Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs).

I understand why. They're sometimes associated with antisocial behaviour, asylum seekers or refugees.

But HMOs serve a far broader purpose in our communities, and it's time we challenged the misconceptions.

HMOs are properties where three or more unrelated people share facilities like kitchens or bathrooms.

In South Tyneside, HMOs support a wide range of residents.

That can be anyone from students to someone recovering from a mental health crisis. HMOs are not 'rehab centres'.

These homes can offer a stepping stone to independence and stability.