Awaab Ishak, toddler dies after exposure to mould in flat, Housing Secretary Michael Gove reacts

The death of a youngster in a housing association apartment from mould infection has been called an "unacceptable tragedy" by Michael Gove. Awaab Ishak, age 2, passed away in December 2020 from a respiratory disease caused by mould in the one-bedroom apartment he shared with his parents, Faisal Abdullah and Aisha Aminin, in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, according to the results of an investigation released on November 15.

Mr. Gove said that it was impossible to connect the toddler's death to a lack of government funding. He continued, “We are all aware that local authorities are having financial difficulties, but that is not an excuse”. "It is a primary duty of the local authorities - but notably the housing association - to ensure that people are in acceptable houses when you have a small kid in a home that is unsuitable for human habitation”.

It comes after Coroner Joanne Kearsley said on November 15 that the toddler's death should serve as a "defining moment" for the housing industry. The toddler's father had reported the mould to Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH), but no action was taken, according to testimony given during an investigation at Rochdale Coroner's Court.


Mr. Gove further added, "Do your Job, man. Stop all this whining and wishing we had more government funding”. He further stated that it "beggars belief" that the chief executive of Rochdale Boroughwide Housing is still in his position.

Gareth Swarbrick, chief executive of RBH, said that Awaab's passing should serve as a "wake-up call for everyone in housing, social care, and health”.

FAQ

1- How did Awaab Ishak die?
Awaab Ishak died of a respiratory condition caused by exposure to the mould in his flat.

2. When did Awaab Ishak pass away?
The two-year-old toddler Awaab Ishak died in December 2020.