Bolton mother says her son ‘ate mould’ in their damp council flat

A Bolton at Home spokesperson said it had “urgently” arranged for work to remove the mould and lower humidity levels after Ms Needham first reported the issue.

She had been given advice on “reducing humidity and improving ventilation” and would receive “regular follow-up checks”, he added.

Her case was raised at a Bolton Council meeting by Councillor Ryan Bamforth, who said it was “absolutely heartbreaking” and “what no young family should have to go through”.

“It’s just not acceptable in any form or way and we should be expecting and receiving a better service in regards to our social housing,” he said.

Bamforth told BBC Radio Manchester there was a wider issue across Bolton of some social homes “being allowed to be run down and sold off” for profit.

In a statement, Bolton Council said: “We understand how upsetting this must have been for Emma Needham and her family.

“In cases where there is an open complaint with the Housing Ombudsman, and where the provider has failed to take appropriate action, the council will take enforcement action.”