Home loss slashed by half in three years

The number of claims leading to home-possession orders issued in Oldham has been slashed by almost half in three years

But Oldhamers still face one of the highest risks of repossession, according to national research.

Oldham had the sixth highest number of possession orders issued to homeowners in the North-West — making Oldham the 19th highest hotspot in the country.

The findings, released by homelessness and housing charity Shelter, found that 350 possession orders were issued in 2010-11 — meaning five in every 1,000 private household are at risk.

Councillor John McCann, cabinet member for housing, transport and regeneration, said Oldham was making huge strides in helping people in a desperate situation — despite it remaining in the country’s top 20.

He said: “We are preventing more orders from being issued and more people from potentially becoming homeless.

“Our figures has risen by 180 people in a year, in our homelessness prevention.

“The figures stretching from such a short space of time shows great improvement. All the parties have agreed on the schemes we have in place, like our distraction housing payments and ways in which we are co-operating with the public.

“The only thing myself and cabinet member for housing, Councillor David Hibbert would disagree on this, would be what colour to paint the doors.”

Oldham is performing better than neighbouring Rochdale and Tameside, which are higher in the North-West table at third and fourth respectively.


If you need support call the First Choice Homes helpline on 0161-770 6699.