Low-income tenants to get help to pay rent from £65m fund

Vulnerable tenants struggling to pay their rent are to get government help in a move that will help protect the income of thousands of private landlords.

The government is making £65 million available to councils in England to support low-income earners in rent arrears.

It will be for councils to determine the best way to support each household on a case-by-case basis.

Any payment is likely to be paid directly to the existing landlord, or a new landlord if the money is being used to support a household to find a new home.

Ministers say they are grateful to landlords for their support and the funding will mean more of them will be able to reach agreements with existing tenants.

The £65 million comes on top of the £500 million Household Support Fund, which was announced by the government in September and is helping vulnerable households across the country with the cost of food, energy, water and other essentials.

Minister for Rough Sleeping and Housing Eddie Hughes MP said: “This new funding will support families that are struggling and help to get them back on their feet as we begin to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The £65 million will be available through the winter months and households at risk of eviction or homelessness should contact their local council if they require support. The fund recognises the impact the pandemic has had on households in the private rented sector with the lowest income.”

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