Homelessness: Financial difficulty

Private and housing association tenants

If you can't pay your rent, don't ignore the problem. You need to talk to your landlord as soon as possible. You will need to let them know what you can pay and that you are seeking advice.

You should also check what beneﬁts are available to you and take steps to reduce your outgoings.

Rent arrears

Shelter offers advice on negotiating rent reductions, checking beneﬁts, and working out a repayment plan.

Find out more on how to deal with rent arrears with Shelter

For further help and advice with rent arrears and problems paying rent, visit Money Helper.

Help with rent – arrears, increases and if you’re struggling to pay | MoneyHelper

Benefits

Find out whether you are entitled to beneﬁts and how to apply

If you claim Housing Beneﬁt or the housing element as part of Universal Credit, then you can apply for Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP) if you are struggling to pay rent.

Find out more about discretionary housing payments and how to apply

Help with Homelessness

If you’re homeless or worried about becoming homeless, you can contact the Homelessness Team for advice and support. No place to stay tonight Call the Out of Hours Service on 01709 336009 (Option 4). Open Monday to Friday, 6pm to 8:30am, and 24 hours on weekends and bank holidays. Not urgent Call the Homelessness Team during office hours (Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5pm) on 01709 336009 (Option 4). Online help You can also contact the team using the online form below:

Telephone: 01709 336009