A YOUNG mum is appealing for private landlords to give people on benefits a chance.

Jenni Hollingsworth, aged 20 and her one-year-old son Connor live in Jenni's one-bedroom flat in Bewsey, miles from Jenni's parents in Cinnamon Brow.

When Jenni discovered she was pregnant a family breakdown left her sleeping on friends' sofas until the social care system found her the flat in Haryngton Avenue. It was classed as temporary and unsuitable for a mum and baby.

Now she is on good terms with her parents who would be able to help more with Connor if she lived closer.

A lack of social housing means she cannot move to Cinnamon Brow, as private landlords often refuse to consider people who are on benefits.

Her pregnancy support worker Chris Lynskey wants to breakdown myths about social security tenants.

She said: "People like Jenni can look after a tenancy well. Landlords might worry that DSS tenants won't look after the property but they have a tenancy support worker to make sure it is kept in good condition. Payments can go straight from the DSS to the landlord, something I don't think everyone is aware. I know of quite a few girls who would benefit from a two-bedroom terraced house. They would make good tenants."

Jenni said: "When I moved in here I felt really lucky but it's hard bringing up Connor in a one-bedroom first floor flat so far from my mum and dad. I always keep the house clean and tidy and just wish there was a private landlord in Cinnamon Brow who would give me a chance."

Landlords who would like to know more, may contact Chris Lynskey on 07786 006056.