Hi, my name is Dee Bonett, and I am campaigning to make it normal to accept pets in all rented accommodation.
Currently it’s down to the social or private landlords – or the freeholder of a leasehold property (most flats).
Why am I so passionate about pets being accepted in private and social rented accommodation?
Affectionally known as my Hun, this is John, Theo, Tinkerbell & their feline best friend Gizmo. John was a gentle and kind man who had an amazing bond with his pets.
John was served with a Section 21 at the latter end of 2016, evicted on 6th March 2017, separated from his pets, and placed in a B&B by Maidstone Borough Council.
He was later given one offer only of permanent housing, with a No Pet Policy.
If John had declined the offer, he would become intentionally homeless.
John died by suicide on 16th March 2017, 10 days after being separated from his pets.
What can be done?
In 2021 after five years of campaigning and pilots, 'The John Chadwick Pet Policy for Emergency and Permanent Accommodation', was implemented by Maidstone Borough Council. Those now facing homelessness, are able to take their pets with them, if the properties are suitable to do so.
With the new Renters Rights Bill, landlords won’t be able to refuse tenants a pet – without a good reason.
But there is no requirement for pets to be allowed in social or council housing.
With your help, we can change pet policies for all tenants!
Together we can change things, but change must be implemented across all rented properties.
PLEASE SIGN MY PETITION TO GET all councils in England to adopt Maidstone Borough Council's New Pet Policy for Emergency and Permanent Accommodation:
