Council Leader Jane Ashworth OBE and Councillor Chris Robinson, Cabinet Member for Housing, launched the Council’s mission to eradicate damp and mould from every home. “We’re turning the tide today,” Councillor Robinson declared, “with a zero-tolerance policy towards damp and mould. We’re making a pledge to our residents.”

The council’s D.A.M.P campaign aims to ensure safe, dry, and warm homes for all. From a dedicated ‘Find it, Fix it’ team swiftly responding to reports to comprehensive annual checks across council properties, the initiative is poised to address and resolve issues of damp and mould promptly.

“I’m proud of the commitment we’re making,” stated Council leader Jane Ashworth. “For too long, many residents endured unacceptable living conditions. This campaign signals a turning point. We take our responsibility as a landlord seriously, ensuring we do our bit to make sure everyone has a decent home.”

Councillor Robinson acknowledged the magnitude of the challenge, citing the prevalence of issues, especially during colder months. “We won’t make excuses. We recognise the scale of the problem and are wholeheartedly committed to addressing it,” he affirmed.

A whopping £117 million capital investment will drive improvement works across 14,500 council-owned properties. This initiative, aligned with national housing standards, involves roofing replacements, insulation upgrades, and energy-efficient installations.

Moreover, the Council is engaging with social housing providers to form a united front against damp and mould. They’re set on supporting private landlords to improve housing standards while offering guidance to residents on prevention.

But this change in approach comes after years of neglect. The previous Conservative administration turned a blind eye, leaving residents to suffer in unacceptable conditions. “Residents were let down by the previous administration,” Councillor Robinson said. “They deserved better, and that’s what we’re committed to delivering.”

A dedicated webpage and hotline ensure residents can easily report issues and get advice quickly.

For more information or to report issues, visit www.stoke.gov.uk/dmc or call 01782 234100. The transformation begins now.