Changes in Teignbridge Council's empty homes policy have helped a Newton Abbot woman with severe mobility issues clear out her empty property and get it on the market, helping to reduce the number of long-term empty properties in the district.

Eileen Powlesland's three-bedroomed semi-detached property was standing empty but was unable to be sold due to the need to clear out furniture, possessions and debris.

It was a task which Mrs Powlesland was physically unable to undertake herself and could not afford to pay for.

Although the property was empty and uninhabitable, by owning the house she was rendered ineligible for benefits which she was in real need of.

With no family to help Mrs Powlesland clear the home, Teignbridge made changes to its empty homes policy to enable it to help.

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