
(Image: T&A)
A couple say they have been left feeling ignored and abandoned after repeatedly raising concerns about alleged harassment in the block where they live.
Clifford Pratt claims he and his wife have endured years of intimidation and anti-social behaviour, which he says has had a devastating impact on their mental health and wellbeing.
The couple, who live in an Incommunities property in Holme Wood, say they have reported multiple incidents and requested a move, but feel little progress has been made.
"We're just trying to get somebody to listen to us," Mr Pratt said.
"We have to keep the curtains closed": Clifford Pratt and his wife claim harassment by neighbours has left them feeling unsafe in their home. (Image: T&A)
Claims of being targeted
Mr Pratt said problems have persisted for several years and claimed incidents often begin after new residents move into the building.
He alleges neighbours have pointed at the couple's flat, stared into their windows and encouraged others to target them.
Mr Pratt also claims rubbish has been thrown in communal areas, neighbours have smoked on shared landings and deliveries have been disrupted, with drivers allegedly being told the couple no longer live at the address.
The couple have installed cameras and privacy film at their property, which Mr Pratt says was done in an effort to make them feel safer in their own home.
'We keep the curtains closed'
Mr Pratt said the situation has left both him and his wife feeling trapped.
He claims they now spend much of their time indoors with the curtains closed because they feel uncomfortable and anxious.
"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 said his wife has since been diagnosed with agoraphobia, severe depression and severe anxiety, while he believes the stress has worsened his own health issues, including epilepsy.
He added that medical professionals have expressed concerns about the impact prolonged stress could be having on his condition.
Calls for rehousing
The couple have asked to be moved from the property but say they have been unable to secure alternative accommodation.
Mr Pratt said he feels frustrated that, despite raising concerns over a prolonged period, they remain in the same situation.
He said: "We're being ignored. We've been here 13 years and just want somebody to listen to what we're going through."
Clifford Pratt and his wife say they have been left feeling ignored after repeatedly raising concerns about alleged harassment at their home. (Image: T&A)
Police investigation ongoing
A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police 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."
Housing provider response
A spokesperson for Incommunities 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.
"We take all reports of anti-social behaviour seriously. We listen to customers' concerns and carefully consider the nature of what's been reported, the impact on those affected and what action or support may be appropriate.
"We also work closely with partners, 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 that requests for rehousing are considered through Bradford Homes, which is managed by Bradford Council, with applications prioritised according to housing need under the council's allocations policy.
Mr Pratt said he hopes speaking publicly about the situation will help raise awareness of the challenges faced by people who feel unsafe in their own homes and encourage agencies to take action.