I worked for six years in an independent but authority-funded housing advice centre.

Unrealistic expectations of the housing waiting list were one of the most regular and dispiriting themes of our work. But all people wanted was a normal, decent home with space for their children to play.

Having to tell such people that there was simply nothing that could be done was not a rewarding occupation.

Before dismissing as “fatuous” concerns about racism, you need to pause and consider why you thought it significant to inform us that a man who wanted to jump the waiting list was Somali (“The Forgotten People”, 13 August, page 19). I’m not saying this is racist per se, but it cannot be dismissed so glibly.

In my experience, such unrealistic expectations are shared across all communities, with a slight edge to the white community, who tend to feel their “superior” claim to being indigenous should reward them with extra priority.

John Souray, Novas-Ouvertures

Source

Housing Today