A mother who spent Christmas worried about an eviction notice has told of the relief she feels knowing the decision has been reversed.

Joanne Chapman who lives in a Golding Homes property in Park Wood Walk near Maidstone was told in October she would have to leave her home after her ex partner allegedly ended their joint tenancy without her knowing.

She was originally given until December 5 to leave but this was extended until January 31 because of the pandemic.

Mrs Chapman made attempts to appeal the notice she felt was 'unfair' but her efforts were rejected because of an ongoing private legal issue which had impacted her need for social housing.

As soon as the matter was resolved a few days ago, she received an email saying she is once again eligible for housing and is allowed to stay in the home she loves with her children Phoebe, 19, Leah, 16 and Brady, 12.

The 44-year-old, who has lived in the property for two years, said: "I felt so elated. It was such a big weight hanging over us at Christmas so it just means we can make plans now and make the house our own.

"The kids are so happy too because they desperately wanted to stay here because they have friends close by and it's easy for them to get to work and school."

Director of Operations at Golding Homes, Annemarie Roberts said she is pleased to have the family as tenants.

She added: “We have been talking to Mrs Chapman throughout the past two months while she resolved a private legal issue impacting her claim to housing.

"We understand this was a difficult time and so extended her right to occupation, to help minimise disruption to her family.

"As a social landlord it is our responsibility to make sure our homes are occupied by those most in need, this is determined by criteria set out by local authorities who maintain the waiting lists.

"We are pleased to have been able to confirm Mrs Chapman does qualify for housing and so have offered a starter tenancy so that she can remain in her home.”

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