Struggling families get a benefit boost

OLDHAM Council has obtained extra funding to help local families stay in their home while saving taxpayers hundreds of thousands of pounds.

It has managed to secure increased funding for Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs) — which are paid in addition to housing or council tax benefits to prevent households from suffering hardship or homelessness.

It means many low income households will now have more cash to help meet their housing costs.

DHPs are part funded by central government, with local authorities given a yearly allocation.

Councils can then choose to supplement their allocation, using their own funds, to increase the number of households able to receive the vital support.

Oldham Council, through its Credit Crunch Cabinet, agreed this additional money — and the commitment has led to increased funding for 2010-11.

From April to December, 2009, it is estimated that the payments have prevented 141 Oldham households, which have struggled to meet their rental costs, from becoming homeless.

The average cost of each prevention is estimated at £393 and usually lasts for six months.

In comparison, it would cost £15,000 to place one household in temporary accommodation for that same period.

DHPs are part of a package of measures that the council has put in place to support residents whose homes may be at risk due to the recession.

Other measures include the mortgage rescue scheme, court desk service and increased access to debt advice.

Councillor John McCann, cabinet member for community services and housing, said: “This is a really positive result for the borough. Not all local authorities have received an increase in funding.

“This will not only result in significant cost savings to the authority but also is a much better outcome for families who are able to remain living within their home.”

l If you currently receive housing or council tax benefit but it does not cover the full cost of your rent or council tax, and you are struggling to maintain your payments, you may be able to apply for a Discretionary Housing Payment.

To apply, or find out more, contact Access Oldham in person at the Civic Centre or by telephone on 0161-770-6633.

Alternatively visit the Mobile Advice Centre, Market Place, Oldham (opposite Yorkshire Building Society) between 10am and 3pm, Monday to Friday next week, and speak to an adviser.