GETTING the keys to a new home is a moment of pure joy, especially for a single mother looking to build a stable future for her kids.
But for Mari, a recent move-in quickly turned sour when her happiness was attacked by online trolls.
After waiting just six months on the council house list, Marika, who goes by @ marikikix on TikTok, was over the moon to get a house with a huge garden.
In a viral video posted on May 18, she called it a “dream come true” and her “forever home.”
The video quickly gained over 150,000 views, but not all the comments were positive.
The backlash focused on her use of the term “forever home,” with many believing a council property shouldn’t be considered one.
One user wrote: “When people call council houses their ‘forever home’, what aspiration.”
Another added: “A council house should never be a ‘forever home’,” suggesting that the term should be reserved for owned properties.
The criticism highlights a common misconception about council housing.
Many commenters seemed to believe these homes are “free,” which is far from the truth.
As one TikTok user pointed out: “I live in a council house that I pay £600 a month for.
“I’ve never claimed benefits in my life. I work two jobs ! They are not free, believe me.”
Amidst the negativity, other users rushed to Marika’s defense.
“Why’s everyone being so awful in the comments?? They’re happy, and that’s all that counts!” one person commented.
Others, however, focused on the practical side of council housing, with one user asking for advice on how Marika got a place so quickly.
A helpful reply noted that “everyone’s circumstances are different” and advised speaking directly with a council caseworker.
Major council home rule
A significant policy shift is on the horizon for council house residents, as the Labour party plans to introduce stringent new restrictions on the Right to Buy scheme.
The new rules would exempt newly built council houses from the Right to Buy for a period of 35 years.
This marks a major change to the long-standing government initiative.
However, the proposed changes have already drawn criticism.
Kevin Hollinrake, the shadow housing secretary, has labelled Deputy Labour Leader Angela Rayner a “hypocrite” for advocating the new restrictions.
This is because Rayner herself previously benefited from the Right to Buy scheme.
According to The Telegraph , Rayner purchased her former council house in Stockport for £79,000 in 2017, securing a 25% discount.
She later sold the property for £48,500 more than her purchase price.
How to do your council house up on the cheap
- Take inspiration from pricier shops and head to B&M, Home Bargains for interior decorations.
- Head to YouTube for easy to follow tutorials on how to decorate rather than paying for professionals.
- For a quick glow-up for your floors or anywhere with tiles, opt for stick-on vinyl to save on costs.
- A lick of paint does wonders to make a room feel brand-new.
- Switch out kitchen cupboard knobs for modern ones instead of buying brand-new cupboards
