PENSIONERS fear they might lose their homes after they face an "unjustified" price hike in rent and bills by their housing association.

Michael Brodie, age 86, has lived at Lullowfield House in Droitwich for the past 15 years. 

But residents have been left feeling worried after Platform Housing put up their rent by almost £300 in an "unjustified price increase".

Mr Brodie was paying £570.35 in bills and rent every month but since March he has been forced to pay £849.38 and he is not the only one who is concerned by the price hike.

However, pensioners at Bilford Court in Worcester were in a similar position until Platform Housing decided to make a u-turn on its decision to increase the rent.

Initially, residents were expected to pay £941 after a price hike which was roughly £300 more than what they were paying before.

Although residents from Bilford Court are still paying the same amount, they will be able to get £108 back on their heating bill every month thanks to a government scheme.

But residents from Lullowfield were left feeling disappointed when they found out Platform Housing did not offer them the same solution.

Mr Brodie said: "Of course, we would want the same thing as Bilford Court to happen here."

However, a spokesperson from Platform Housing said they will support residents who need extra support or information about the price increases.

Mr Brodie said: "It's the same old story, but they are not dealing with people the way they should.

"There are vulnerable people here who would not be able to advocate for themselves.

"They've gone over the top and we are going to fight it to the bitter end.

"I'm horrified. 

"Everything has gone up and everybody is suffering from this. But this rent increase is far too much, they have really lumbered it on.

"I want Platform to justify the price increase.

"We are being denied access to the key decision-makers, as people in the commune we want to sit down with them.

"It's not just us, there are thousands of people living in communes like this.

"Big Brother is having its own way and they make it sound like they are untouchable but sometimes the little person will kick back."

Sarah Sutton, director of new customers and specialist housing at Platform Housing Group said: "Platform, like other housing providers, is experiencing exceptional utility cost rises at our schemes, which we understand is concerning for our customers. 

"If any of our customers would like help, support or information about these increases, we would urge them to contact us directly to discuss their own personal circumstances."