A SPA mum and dad claim they are being forced to live apart because of a shortage of social housing in Droitwich Spa.

Lisa Wheatley and Scott Warner, the parents of two-year-old Emily, have been on Spa Housing Association's waiting list since October 2000.

They currently live separately with their parents but are desperate for their own family home.

Spa Housing has acknowledged their long wait but admits it has a severe shortage of suitable properties.

Lisa told the Advertiser: "Scott works full-time and we qualify for a mortgage but there is nothing in our price range. Renting privately is too expensive and while our families have been supportive - it's time they have their homes back"

Told to lie

The 22-year-old, who is sharing a small bedroom in Archers Close with her daughter, claims she is 'fobbed off' by housing staff based in Queen Street and claims she was once told to lie to gain more points for her application.

"One minute I'm told we are near the top of the housing list and the next minute someone more important comes along," added the disillusioned mum.

In March, the Droitwich Spa Advertiser lifted the lid on the number of young mums and homeless people unsuccessfully seeking homes in Droitwich.

Then Spa Housing blamed a shortage of affordable land suitable for development and the organisation's executive director Clare Huyton says little has changed.

Clare said bids for cash to build new homes look promising but these won't be ready for at least 18 months.

She added: "I understand Lisa and her family do have a need but because so many people are seeking housing, we are forced to prioritise.

"I would like to meet the family and discuss all the options with them."

Clare urged Lisa to make an official complaint about being told to lie to strengthen her application.