Residents affected by changes to housing benefit can get help from the Council to stay in their home or find cheaper alternative accommodation.
The Government introduced changes to housing benefit from 1 April 2011 for anyone claiming Local Housing Allowance. It is estimated that in Redbridge, a third of claimants will be affected by the changes and the average reduction will be £13 per week.
Residents who were receiving Local Housing Allowance prior to 1 April 2011 will see a change nine months after their annual review date, which means some people will be affected from this month. The changes mean residents may receive less cash than before.
Many people will be largely unaffected as either their rent is already under the maximum payment figure or the shortfall will be affordable for them. Those who are struggling to pay the shortfall are being advised to contact the Council for advice as soon as possible.
Dedicated housing options officers will be available during the year to help those affected by the changes.
Help for residents can include:
- Negotiating a rent reduction with landlords on behalf of the tenant. If a landlord agrees to reduce rent, the Council can pay benefit directly to the landlord making it easier and quicker for them.
- Offering money advice to help residents budget carefully and cope with the extra cost of a shortfall in rent allowance
- Helping towards shortfalls in rent for a short period while other housing arrangements are made
- Assisting in moving tenants to a cheaper property if necessary.
The month claimants are affected will depend on their annual review date. For example, residents who had an annual review in April 2011 will be affected this month (January 2012). Affected claimants were advised in their annual review letter. Letters are being sent to residents outlining the support available and their personal circumstances.
As part of the Government’s housing benefit reform, there will be an extra change to the allowance offered to single people aged 25 to 34. They will only be eligible for the shared room rate, which will mean some will see a reduction in their Local Housing Allowance. The Council is contacting all those affected by this change to offer support and advice.
If you are affected and need more advice call 020 8708 4816, 020 8708 4892 or 020 8708 4086.
Find out more information on the changes.