'No child should wonder where they will sleep' - Surbiton family's heartbreaking plea after being made homeless
By Tilly O'Brien 11th Sep 2026
A family from Surbiton, which was made homeless in March, have made a fundraiser to help them find a new home.
Among the children is a daughter living with Type 1 diabetes and coeliac disease, another child with special educational needs, and a baby who is only six months old and has never known the security of a stable home.
After spending more than four years in unsuitable temporary accommodation, the family was evicted in March and has since been moving between budget hotels and temporary camping accommodation.
They currently have no kitchen, no washing facilities, no permanent address and no stable place for the children to study, play or simply feel at home.
For their daughter with Type 1 diabetes, the lack of a safe and stable environment also makes managing her condition much more difficult.
The mother, Tsvetelina Slavcheva, said: "We once had a secure life in Surbiton before our children were subjected to harassment by a drunk neighbour.
"One of our daughters suffered severe trauma as a result, to the point that she temporarily lost her speech. We reported the matter to the police and had to move.
"During the COVID-19 lockdown, we were unable to secure private rented accommodation and had no choice but to turn to Kingston Council for help."
However, she said, the council did not help.
Tsvetelina told Nub News: "Despite everything we are going through, my children have continued attending school and doing their very best.
"Their father and I are now trying desperately to secure a private rented home and give our children the stability they deserve."
The family's fundraiser is raising money to help cover accommodation debts, a deposit and advance rent for a permanent home, as well as food and other essential living costs.
They have already raised £1,470 of their £22k target.
Tsvetelina added: "If you are able to donate — even a small amount — please consider helping.
"And if you cannot donate, please share our GoFundMe link. A share costs nothing, but it could help this reach someone who can make a real difference.
"No child should have to wonder where they are going to sleep or whether they will have a home tomorrow."
Donations can be made to the family via their GoFundMe page here.
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