Highland Council warn tenants of money they may be missing out on
COUNCIL tenants have been urged to make sure they aren't missing out on financial help towards the cost of their rent.
Highland Council has warned that many of its tenants may be missing out on help towards their rent from Universal Credit because they have not notified the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) of their annual rent increase, which came into effect on March 30.
Those tenants who have not yet reported their rent increase could be facing a shortfall in the help they receive towards their rent, putting them at risk of rent arrears.
Chairman of the housing and property committee, Cllr Ben Thompson, said: “We understand that many of our tenants may have been struggling over recent months as a result of the ongoing pandemic. We are here to offer help and support.
"Some tenants may have forgotten to report their rent increase due to the timing of the lockdown restrictions being imposed. Our Housing Officers are available to assist all of our tenants with any questions or concerns they may have.
"For those claiming benefits, particularly those who are having to make a benefit claim for the first time, the Universal Credit system can be complex, our staff are trained to help tenants with a wide range of tailored advice and support.
“We would advise any tenants facing financial hardship and struggling to pay their rent to contact us immediately on so that we can provide them with the support that they need.”
The council is urging tenants who receive Universal Credit who haven’t reported their rent increase to act immediately. They should log on to their online journal and complete the section ‘Report any changes to your housing costs’.
You can also contact the Universal Credit Service Centre direct on for assistance with your Universal Credit claim.
If you have any concerns about paying your rent, particularly if you have been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic please contact your Housing Officer straight away by calling 01349 886602.
The council's housing officers can also provide advice and assistance if you are having any difficulties paying your rent or signpost you to the most appropriate help depending on your circumstances.
For more information about Universal Credit, visit www.gov.uk/universal-credit.
