Support paying your rent

Universal Credit (UC)

You may be able to claim Universal Credit (UC) if you’re on a low income or need help with your living costs. You may be able to get it if you’re on a low income (including self-employed or part time), out of work or if you can’t work, for example because of a health condition.

To make a claim for the housing costs element of Universal Credit you should do this straight away as it’s the date of your claim that will be used in deciding when any housing costs are paid. The housing costs element of Universal Credit can’t be backdated, apart from certain special circumstances.

After you apply, you must contact your local Job Centre Plus within 7 days to make an appointment with a work coach.

If you’re awarded the housing costs element of Universal Credit, it’s your responsibility to pay the rent due.

Universal Credit Managed Migration

The Government is moving people who are currently claiming legacy benefits such as tax credits, Jobseekers Allowance, Income Support and Housing benefit etc onto Universal Credit. 

You don’t need to do anything until you have received a Universal Credit ‘Migration Notice’ (letter) from the DWP.

The first roll out will only affect people claiming Working Tax Credits and Child Tax Credits.

Housing Benefit

Housing benefit helps people on a low income to pay their rent. It can pay for part or all of your rent.

You can make a claim for housing benefit using the council’s online benefit form. 

It’s important that you do this straight away and supply all required documentation as claims can’t be backdated more than 4 weeks.

If you don’t put your claim in straight away you’ll be responsible for paying the full rent due.

Discretionary housing payment (DHP)

If you’re finding it difficult to pay your rent, you may be able to get a discretionary housing payment (DHP) on top of your usual housing benefit or Universal Credit payment. This is a temporary payment to help people facing financial crisis.

Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) can help with extra living costs if you have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability and difficulty doing certain everyday tasks or getting around because of your condition. You can get PIP even if you’re working, have savings or are getting most other benefits. The amount you receive depends on how your condition affects you, not the condition itself and you’ll need an assessment by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

Contact the Tenants First team

Click to fill out a request form or phone us on 01226 774270.

Barclays Bank

We have an arrangement with Barclays Bank and can refer you to open a basic bank account to manage your money and access Direct Debit and debit card facilities to pay your bills. Barclays Bank also offers a money skills programme for those who feel they would like to know more about budgeting and managing their income.

Community First - credit union

Community First offers various accounts which allow standing orders for bill payments, access to regular savings, and fair and affordable access to credit.

Money Saving Expert - compare offers

Money Saving Expert can help you compare bank accounts and find the best option for your personal circumstances.

Tenancy and family support

Our dedicated Tenants First team give specialist tenancy and family support.

Training, skills, employment

Our Tenants First team are here to help and support you if you’re unemployed or not currently in education or training.

Cost of living

We’re here to help if you’re worried about things like paying your rent or heating your home.