ACTION: A disabled Inverness man who can not even reach the controls of his new heating system at his home in Kinmylies is calling on Highland Council to help him
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A disabled man who can not even reach the controls of his new heating system is calling on Highland Council to help him
John Baillie (45), from Kinmylies, thought his problems would be solved when his inefficient heating system was taken out, and a new one fitted.
But little did he know that was only the start of his problems.
He believes his whole house has been destroyed – and Highland Council are offering only £150 in compensation to redecorate.
Mr Baillie, who for the most part uses a stick or wheelchair and mobility scooter to get around, is not even able to get to the control panel for his new heating system.
And chunks of his wall have been removed while radiators were removed.
Screws and other bits of metal have been strewn around his home, and because of his disability is struggling to pick them up.
He said: "It is not as though I have anyone else to ask to pick them up for me. I live alone, and I don't really have family or friends in the area who can come at pick them up.
"I am at my wits' end.
"I have been offered £150 from Highland Council as a redecoration grant, but that will not even sort out the repairs for one room. I am at a loss about what to do."
Mr Baillie describes chop saw holes at his front door, and holes on all his walls in every room and in the hallway where the radiators have been removed.
He continued: "I was meant to be getting this work done because I am disabled, but the men who were here to do the job were not aware of the special adaptation I needed, and they just ploughed on with the job. I was meant to get a radiator in the kitchen, and I didn't get one.
"They put the control panel for the system in a cupboard that I can not get access to.
"They have even left screws and nails in the garden so I am finding it difficult to get about outside as well.
"What I need is for the council to come in and put it right. But the other day the housing officer phoned me and asked me what I needed done, after she had been out and taken a list of what was needed in my house to put it right.
"I am disgusted that anyone's home would be left in this state, but that is what they have done to me. When all you have is your home, and someone destroys it - it is heartbreaking."
A spokesman for Highland Council said: "Highland Council are aware of this case but we are unable to comment on individual circumstances."
