My daughter, who passed away as an unattended death in the heatwave (UK) in May, was in a state of decomposition. She wasn’t found for 3 days and had all her personal belongings destroyed by the cleaning company the local council employed, as they were the landlord for her property.
At no time, even though the local council knew that I was her next of kin and mother, did they contact me to keep me informed of their proposal to do this, which they did less than a week after my daughter was discovered.
I have contacted them again and been fobbed off by them, saying there was nothing of value at the proptery ie jewelry and dismissed my concern.
There may not have been anything of value in their eyes, but in ours there was, especially her paperwork. Also, a small piece of clothing to have cleaned and given to her 3-year-old daughter when she’s old enough, so at least she had something of her beloved mummy’s
I intend to take this further with them
Are there any UK lawyers on here that could give a little advice, and if there are, can I use this Tort in my case against them?
Torts (Interference with Goods) Act 1977 before disposing of or selling the items. By working together, landlords and families can ensure that the process is handled sensitively and legally.
Thank you all so much for being there; your support is so very valued by me and bless you all who have lost children I’m here to support you too as well as the wonderful support you have given me
Joanne Stephanie’s mum x
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Very sorry to hear all this. I am no lawyer but I do think you should definitely take legal steps. I hope you find someone who can help you.
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Thank you for your support my lovely God Bless you xx
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Hi @Beverley4,
I’m so sorry to hear about your daughter - it sounds incredibly traumatic to deal with, on top of the grief you’re already navigating. It must have been really distressing to learn that your daughter’s personal belongings had been destroyed. I can imagine that losing these items must have added to the pain and heartbreak of losing your daughter.
Unfortunately, we can’t provide legal advice here as the purpose of the community is primarily for peer support and sharing personal experiences. While other members may be able to tell you about their own experiences of dealing with local authorities, landlords or complaints processes after a bereavement, we aren’t able to advise on whether a particular law or legal claim would apply in your circumstances.
Given the concerns you’ve raised about your daughter’s belongings and the lack of communication from the council, it may be helpful to seek independent legal advice. Organisations such as Citizens Advice may be able to help you understand your options and identify any specialist legal support.
Thank you for sharing your story so openly. It’s clear how much these belongings meant to your family, regardless of any monetary value they may have had. I hope you’re able to get some answers and accountability regarding what happened.
Take good care 
Harriet
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I was really horrified to hear what happened to your daughter Such a sad story poor girl Then to her property How could the Local Authority be so insensitive to her relatives This is a very difficult situation for you to navigate emotionally I would be really angry I hope you have had some legal advice
My husband died abroad and all his personal property clothes lap top etc phone passport etc he had with had disappeared I found this so difficult to cope with Really you lost so much more Thinking of you I hope you succeed in whatever action you are taking and prevent others from suffering in the same way
Blessings be at peace
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Thank you lovely I just want justice for my granddaughter xx So sorry for your loss prayers heading your way and love x
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