Paralympic star in hotel after no-fault eviction

A Paralympic champion who faced homelessness after a no-fault eviction has said the stress of it has left her with debilitating headaches.

Megan Giglia, who won gold for Team GB in track cycling at the 2016 Paralympics, told the BBC she and her nine-year-old child had to leave her rented Stockport home in March after being given notice by her former landlord.

After seeking help from Stockport Council's homelessness prevention services, she has moved into a hotel funded by Stockport Homes while she applies for homes on the housing register.

The provider, which manages the authority's social housing, said it knew the situation was "distressing and frustrating" and had done everything to help.

Giglia suffered a stroke and brain haemorrhage in 2013 which left her with weakness on her right side and difficulties with balance.

Stockport Homes said she needed a level access flat or bungalow with a level access shower after an assessment of her medical needs.

However, she said she disagreed over the type of social housing property she needs and would be happy with a house with stairs.

"They're not allowing me a choice," she said.

She said she was at a loss as to how the situation had come about.

"I just don't know how I've ended up in this," she said. "I get severe headaches from the stress of it all. It's not great, but I manage because I have to."

She said the situation had also impacted her sporting career and she had to leave a talent academy for the British shooting team where she was aiming to compete at the "highest level".

The 40-year-old moved to Greater Manchester from Kent for access to sports and training facilities.

Her win in Rio de Jainero was Team GB's first medal of that event and came just months after she won two golds at the UCI Para-cycling World Championships.

She was made an MBE in the 2017 New Year Honours for services to cycling.

A Stockport Homes representative said decisions around housing offers were "never taken lightly".

"Sadly, this challenge isn't unique to Stockport," they added.

"Unfortunately there simply isn't the accommodation available in the numbers needed to meet the demand."

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