Laura Johnson departs Barnet Homes after Grenfell criticism
Former housing chief's short tenure ends following outcry from Grenfell survivors and families.
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Laura Johnson, who previously headed the housing department at the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea during the Grenfell Tower fire, is no longer employed by The Barnet Group. Barnet Homes, the council-owned company responsible for managing more than 14,000 properties in the borough, confirmed her departure.
Criticism from Grenfell survivors
Grenfell housing boss leaves Barnet Group role
Laura Johnson departs The Barnet Group after backlash from Grenfell survivors and local councillors.
Johnson's appointment earlier this year as a group director at Barnet Homes had drawn significant criticism from bereaved families and survivors of the Grenfell Tower tragedy. Grenfell United, a group representing survivors and bereaved families, called the appointment "a scandal" and "an outrage". A spokesperson for Grenfell United stated that it was unacceptable for individuals criticised in the Grenfell Tower Public Inquiry to continue in positions of authority over public safety.
The Metropolitan Police recently referred 54 individuals and 20 companies to the Crown Prosecution Service as part of their investigation into the Grenfell Tower fire. Kensington and Chelsea Council confirmed it was among the organisations referred for potential offences including corporate manslaughter and breaches of fire and health and safety regulations. The CPS is currently reviewing the evidence to make charging decisions.
Barnet Council's previous statement
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Barnet Council had previously stated that Johnson was the "strongest candidate" for the role following a competitive recruitment process and was "legally eligible". Barnet Homes declined to comment further on Johnson's employment, citing confidentiality obligations.
During her evidence to the Grenfell Tower Public Inquiry, Johnson was asked if there was anything she would have done differently. She responded by expressing regret regarding due diligence on the tower's cladding and stated, "The list is endless because you would never want anything of this type of thing to happen. It's just awful."
Questions this report answers
+Why has Laura Johnson left Barnet Homes?
Laura Johnson is no longer employed by The Barnet Group. Her departure follows significant criticism from Grenfell Tower survivors and families regarding her previous role at Kensington and Chelsea Council during the Grenfell Tower fire.
+Who are Grenfell United?
Grenfell United is a group representing survivors and bereaved families of the Grenfell Tower fire. They expressed strong disapproval of Laura Johnson's appointment at Barnet Homes, calling it "a scandal" and "an outrage".
+What is Barnet Homes?
Barnet Homes is an arm's-length management organisation responsible for managing over 14,000 council-owned properties within the north London borough of Barnet.
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