Bradford Couple Say Harassment Complaints Are Being Ignored

A couple living in Holme Wood, Bradford, say years of alleged harassment and anti-social behaviour have left them feeling unsafe in their own home. West Yorkshire Police have confirmed an active harassment investigation, while housing provider Incommunities says it is investigating the complaints.

A Bradford couple say they feel abandoned after repeatedly reporting alleged harassment and anti-social behaviour at their housing block, claiming the situation has seriously affected their health and wellbeing.

Clifford Pratt and his wife, who live in an Incommunities property in Holme Wood, say they have endured years of intimidation and have struggled to secure help despite making numerous complaints.

The couple, who have lived at the property for 13 years, say they have also requested alternative accommodation because they no longer feel comfortable in their home.

Allegations of intimidation and anti-social behaviour

Mr Pratt claims that problems have continued for several years, with some incidents allegedly beginning after new residents move into the building.

He says neighbours have pointed towards the couple's flat, stared through their windows and encouraged others to target them.

Other reported incidents include rubbish being thrown in communal areas, smoking on shared landings and disruption to deliveries.

Mr Pratt alleges that delivery drivers have sometimes been told the couple no longer live at the address.

In an attempt to improve their sense of security, the couple have installed cameras and privacy film at their property.

Couple say they feel trapped inside their home

Mr Pratt says the ongoing situation has left both him and his wife feeling increasingly isolated.

He claims they regularly keep their curtains and windows closed because they feel anxious about what might happen outside.

"We are being targeted in our own home," he said.

"We have to sit in our flat with the windows closed, curtains closed and doors locked."

Mr Pratt says his wife has been diagnosed with agoraphobia, severe depression and severe anxiety.

He also believes the prolonged stress has worsened his own health problems, including epilepsy.

According to Mr Pratt, medical professionals have expressed concerns about the possible impact of sustained stress on his condition.

Requests to move home

The couple say they have repeatedly asked to be rehoused but have so far been unable to secure alternative accommodation.

Mr Pratt says he is frustrated by what he considers a lack of meaningful progress despite raising concerns over an extended period.

"We're being ignored. We've been here 13 years and just want somebody to listen to what we're going through," he said.

He hopes that speaking publicly will encourage the relevant organisations to address the couple's concerns.

West Yorkshire Police confirm active investigation

West Yorkshire Police have confirmed that a harassment crime has been recorded and that an investigation is ongoing.

A police spokesperson said:

"A crime of harassment has been recorded and the case remains under active investigation.

"Officers have been in touch with the victim recently to update them on the investigation so far."

Police have not announced any findings or confirmed that anyone has been charged in connection with the allegations.

Incommunities responds to complaints

Housing provider Incommunities says it recognises the distress that residents can experience when they feel unsafe in their homes.

A spokesperson said:

"We understand how distressing it can be when someone feels unsafe or intimidated in their own home, and the impact this can have on their wellbeing."

The organisation said it takes reports of anti-social behaviour seriously and considers the nature of complaints, their impact on residents and what support or action may be appropriate.

It also confirmed that it works with other agencies, including the police, where necessary.

"We are aware of this customer's case, which is being thoroughly investigated through our anti-social behaviour and complaints processes," the spokesperson added.

How rehousing requests are considered

Incommunities explained that applications for alternative accommodation are considered through Bradford Homes, which is managed by Bradford Council.

Requests are prioritised according to housing need under the council's allocations policy.

Mr Pratt says he hopes sharing his family's experience will raise awareness of the difficulties faced by residents who feel unsafe in their own homes.

The police investigation and Incommunities' complaints processes remain ongoing.

 

Source: Telegraph & Argus, 27 October 2026.

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