Sheds in Hatfield House Basement

[Maria Elizabeth Prior]

I was not sure exactly what title to put for my experience today, so kept it simple.  I have had a shed for many years in Hatfield House basement, but because of the ongoing problem with the area being used by drug takers, I decided it was not safe to have a shed there, so told the Estate Office I would give it up.  About 2 weeks ago, having got out some of my possessions, the Estate Office forcibly removed the rest and put them into storage, as I would not pay for a shed I could not safely use.  They also changed the locks.  With the weather being very cold I wanted a confector heater I had left behind.  I arranged to collect it today, but when I got to the Office at 3.40 pm I was told I should have come in the morning, and I could not have my heater.  I explained that I had been ill all day, and only just returned from the hospital, but the Office refused to give me my heater, despite explaining that my partner is ill, and 80 years old.   These are facts they know anyway.

I am wondering if being compassionate is not part of the job description to be an Estate Officer these days!  I am appalled at this.  Also, tonight, again there were drug users in one of the sheds, using it as a 'den' for their activities.  So it seems they can have a key, but because I don't feel it safe to have a shed there because of these people, my stuff is thrown out, and the lock changed, and I can't get my property when I want, and need it!  It seems the Corporation have got their priorities right then!!!

[JM]

This is appalling! 

Perhaps one of the people listed on the left will do something about a) friendly service and b) getting the drug issue dealt with.  I had no idea this was going on.

[Maria Elizabeth Prior]

Hi Jean.  Unfortunately, it was one of the persons listed on the left that I had the unfortunate experience with today.  Of course, I am not blaming that person for the drug issue, as it must be hard to deal with.  However, you can understand my frustration that these people are allowed a shed for their drug use, yet I am thrown out of mine, and have difficulty getting my property back.  I can understand being told off for coming in late to the Office, and being an inconvenience, but what has happened to the compassionate Estate Officer, who years ago, and I have lived here for 22 years, would have helped a vulnerable resident? 
 
Jean McMeakin said:

This is appalling! 

Perhaps one of the people listed on the left will do something about a) friendly service and b) getting the drug issue dealt with.  I had no idea this was going on.