Worthing Pilot scheme helps homeless stay with pets
Most tenancy agreements include a 'no-pet' clause
A new pilot scheme has launched to help homeless people stay with their pets as they seek permanent homes.
It's been launched by Adur & Worthing Councils in partnership with Worthing-based homeless charity, Turning Tides.
It has included dog training sessions to help individuals show landlords they're responsible owners with well-trained pets, as most tenancy agreements include a 'no pet' clause.
Sam Bashall, who lives in a Worthing hostel, took part in the dog training session. She was forced to leave her home with her beloved dog Blakey - because her landlord wouldn't allow pets.
Sam, who was evicted from her home four years ago hopes to find a permanent place to live with Blakey this year, said giving up her pup was never an option.
She said:
"I was told I could get rid of Blakey or find him a foster carer but that was never going to happen. Our only choice was to live in a tent until we moved into the hostel. Although Blakey's very well behaved, it was good to get help from a professional."
A new Bill currently being heard in Parliament seeks to end the 'no pet' clause and make it easier for private and social renters to have pets.