A FAMILY currently living in a tent in the back garden of a family member will continue to receive support from the council, Borough of Poole has claimed.

Jamie Starling, his pregnant partner Rachel Barter, and four-year-old Aimee have been living in Rachel's mum's back garden since they were evicted from a bed and breakfast several weeks ago.

Borough of Poole has said that they have worked hard to try and rehome the family.

“Borough of Poole works to ensure that appropriate temporary and settled housing options are available to families who require assistance," a spokesman said.

"In this instance, both the offer of temporary accommodation and alternative private rented accommodation were refused, but we will continue to offer to support the family to secure a property.

"We would encourage all households experiencing housing difficulties to seek advice early to ensure they have the right information, advice and support to avoid homelessness.”

Mr Starling, 35, said that the accommodation the family has so far been shown has been sub-standard, likening some of them to crack-dens that would not be satisfactory to bring up a dog.

His partner, Rachel, is just weeks from giving birth. They have been unable to move into Rachel's mum's house because of the number of adults already living at the property at Waterloo as well as some severe health problems currently affecting one of the family members.