Housing Payments Changed To Support Private Tenants

Changes to housing payments have been announced to provide additional support for private tenants facing a shortfall in their rent and the housing support they currently receive.

The changes to Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs) will also mean that privately renting claimants who lost the £20 UC uplift and who receive Universal Credit (UC) housing costs, can have their DHP award reviewed and increased in line with the new rules.

Anyone who has had a significant change in their income or circumstances can also have their payment reviewed.

Announcing the changes, Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey said: "The changes I have approved will see a much more flexible approach to the awarding of Discretionary Housing Payments.

"Privately renting tenants in receipt of UC housing costs, who lost the £20 Universal Credit uplift, can have their payment reviewed and increased if eligible.

"I have removed the two year time limit on Discretionary Housing Payments and have made the 13-week protection payment for people new to benefits, a permanent fixture.

"The rate at which new awards are calculated will also be increased while a review will be carried out of all awards under £10 per week with those increased if appropriate."

The Discretionary Housing Payment scheme, which is administered by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE), will now be considered a long-term aid for those who require it which will help in sustaining tenancies.

Existing entitlement to Housing Benefit or the housing costs element of Universal Credit (UC) is a qualifying condition. Awards from the Scheme are discretionary and each application is considered on its own merits.

Minister Hargey continued: "I am pleased that following an extensive review of the scheme, undertaken by my officials and representatives of the DHP working group, a much more flexible approach will be taken to the award of payments going forward.

"This approach will offer long-term support for people who require additional financial assistance, helping people meet their rental obligations and to maintain their tenancies."