Is Privacy Legislation Fit for Purpose?
14/10/2025
Andy Cameron-Smith
A national scandal hiding in plain sight
Every week across Britain, lives are lost because the systems built to protect people have instead learned to look away. Lucy’s story is one of them. Her death is not a mystery; it shows how, too often, privacy concerns and fragmented services get in the way of joined-up care.
Lucy was a young mother, bright, kind and determined to be well. Over three years she was admitted to hospital 18 times with seizures, infections, overdoses and sepsis. Each time she was treated, patched up and sent home. Each service focused only on its part of the problem.
In a recent Healthy Homes Hub podcast, Lucy’s mother, Maggie, described how she tried again and again to raise the alarm. “I was shouting into a void,” she said. “Nobody would talk to me. Nobody joined the dots.”
When privacy rules are applied too rigidly, compassion and common sense are lost. Lucy died alone in her council flat on her little boy’s third birthday.
Become a member to read this article and more!
Social Housing Providers, Local Government, and Academics can sign up for free to access this article and more.
Already registered? Login Here
What Are the Benefits of Being a Member of the Healthy Homes Hub?
Industry Recognition and Networking:
Connect with a thriving network of over 350 housing organisations, including decision-makers, innovators, and leaders. Build partnerships that enhance your professional growth and create lasting business opportunities.
Showcase Your Expertise:
Demonstrate your impact by participating in exclusive case studies, webinars, and events. Highlight your contributions to creating healthier, sustainable homes, reaching a broad audience across the sector.
Influence Policy and Advocacy:
Be part of shaping housing policy through direct engagement with policymakers and advocacy efforts. Stay at the forefront of discussions driving meaningful change in the housing sector.
Access to Market Insights:
Gain access to Healthy Homes Hub’s regular newsletters, expert analysis, and resources. Stay informed about trends, regulations, and innovative practices that affect housing professionals.
Specialised Events and Workshops:
Take part in events like the Immersive Study Tours, offering hands-on learning and networking opportunities. Visit groundbreaking projects and facilities to explore real-world solutions for healthier and more sustainable homes.
Exclusive Tools and Resources:
Only members can upgrade to Housing Sage, a cutting-edge AI assistant tailored to social housing professionals. Benefit from personalised insights, regulatory guidance, and innovative ideas to enhance your operations.
Collaboration Opportunities:
Contribute to Healthy Homes Hub’s mission by sharing best practices, participating in action learning programmes like the Retrofit Society, or co-developing solutions with academic and industry leaders.
