THORNBURY resident Heather Browning-Sheppard’s anger at Merlin Housing Society is understandable, after her family’s ‘dream home’ was taken away at the last minute.


The mum is clearly furious about her treatment by the organisation after they promised her a new house but then withdrew the offer a day before the move, claiming it was due to it being ‘unsuitable’ for her disability.


To make matters worse, they’ve said she can no longer park her mobility scooter outside her flat, where it’s been for three years with no issues.


The change of rules and plans to move was inevitably going to be inconvenient and frustrating to the family of four.


But surely Merlin is only acting with the best intentions?


The safety of its tenants is paramount and despite the lack of organisation in choosing a suitable house for the family, their decision appears to be solely based on what is best in the long-term.


It would have been wrong to encourage the family to continue with the move and then regret their choice if an accident then occurred.


Their actions may seem abrupt but would only have been carried out to adhere to the standards expected to keep tenants safe and happy.


It is hoped they help the family as much as possible and perhaps rethink the new health and safety regulation over where the mobility scooter can stay – or find an alternative, rather than demanding a sudden change.