Residents in sheltered housing say they are living a “nightmare” after a prolonged bed bug infestation has left some too ashamed to invite friends and family into their homes.

At Shaftesbury Court, concern is growing for one vulnerable tenant who had his possessions, including family photographs and carpets, removed during treatment and has yet to have them replaced.

He is still living without flooring after the flat was “ravaged” by the parasites.

Residents say they have been forced to isolate themselves to stop the spread.

Messages have been sent to local church groups, East Hampshire District Council and adult social care services, but tenants claim little progress has been made.

Resident Geoff Negus said: “We are worried about our neighbour as he has learning difficulties and does not realise the problem with bed bugs.

“There have been several outbreaks in the past and we all have to put double-sided tape, sawdust and traps outside our doors to stop the spread. We have written several letters to everyone at Sanctuary to get this issue sorted but we don’t get any response.”

He added that the problem has eroded community life.

“When I first came here there was a community atmosphere and people would socialise with each other and have families around. Now people are ashamed and worried to bring their families and guests over,” he said.

Another resident said: “The situation of being almost a prisoner in your own flat is causing many residents, including myself, to feel depressed. The bed bug situation has been ongoing for almost two years now with no end in sight.”

Manager Kim Valler confirmed pest control services are expected to visit next week, with the resident of Flat 33 being moved temporarily to a guest room. But tenants say they want a permanent solution after repeated flare-ups.

Sanctuary Housing Association has been approached for comment.

Bed bug infestations have been rising across the country in recent years. According to the British Pest Control Association (BPCA), some pest control firms reported a 65 percent year-on-year increase in cases in 2023, following a surge of outbreaks across Europe.

While the NHS stresses bed bugs are not known to transmit disease, their bites can cause severe itching, allergic reactions and significant mental distress. Infestations are increasingly being reported not only in homes but also in hotels, care facilities and on public transport.