Awaab’s Law petition delivered to Downing Street

28 June 2023

GCN's Christian Weaver, Awaab Ishak's father Faisal and Kelly Darlington stand with the Awaab's Law petition outside 10 Downing Street

A petition with 177,581 signatories, backing the inclusion of ‘Awaab’s Law’ in the Social Housing (Regulation) Bill, was delivered to 10 Downing Street yesterday.

The petition, which stemmed from a campaign by the Manchester Evening News, was handed over by Awaab’s father, Faisal. It was hosted by Change.org and supported by Shelter, Tony Lloyd MP and Rebecca Long-Bailey MP, as well as Kelly Darlington, Head of Inquests at Farleys LLP and GCN’s Christian Weaver who represented the family at Awaab’s inquest.

In March, following support from Housing Secretary Michael Gove, Awaab’s Law – requiring damp and mould to be inspected and repaired in strict timeframes – was added to the Social Housing (Regulation) Bill.

Yesterday, the Bill was discussed in Parliament for a final time before going for Royal Assent.

The following statement was issued by Christian Weaver and Kelly Darlington.

“In November 2022, the inquest into the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak concluded. Awaab died due to prolonged exposure to mould in his home. It was an entirely preventable tragedy.

“We are deeply grateful to have had the opportunity to stand alongside Awaab’s father, with the Manchester Evening News and Change.org, in delivering this petition to 10 Downing Street.

“Following this, we witnessed a momentous occasion as the Social Housing Regulation Bill, incorporating Awaab’s Law, was passed in the House of Lords.

“Awaab’s Law marks a significant milestone in amplifying the voices of tenants residing in social housing. By imposing strict time limits on social landlords to inspect and address issues such as damp and mould, it represents a noteworthy leap forward.

“It should never have taken the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab for these changes to take place. We sincerely hope that these changes will help prevent similar tragedies from occurring.

“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all those who contributed to this case.”

Coverage of the petition being delivered to Downing Street can be found in the Manchester Evening News and on the ITV website.