Struggling With Rent? Discretionary Housing Payments Could Help

DHPs are extra payments from your local council to help cover housing related costs. They’re not automatic or guaranteed, but awarded based on your personal circumstances. DHPs are short term solutions and intended to give you some breathing space while you work on a longer term plan. You don’t have to repay a DHP.

You must already be receiving:

• Housing Benefit, or
• The housing element of Universal Credit.

If you don’t receive either of these, you won’t be eligible for a DHP.

DHPs can support you with:

• A shortfall in your rent if your benefit doesn’t cover the full amount.
• Rent in advance if you need to move into a new home.
• A tenancy deposit.

Temporary support if you’re affected by:

• The benefit cap.
• The bedroom tax (removal of the spare room subsidy).
• Local Housing Allowance (LHA) limits in the private sector.

This can be especially useful if:

• You’re waiting for a benefit decision.
• You’re fleeing domestic abuse and need to move urgently.
• You’re at risk of eviction and just need help to get back on track.

A DHP cannot be used for:

• Council Tax (even if you get Council Tax Support).
• Ineligible service charges (e.g. water bills or heating).
• Debts unrelated to rent.
• Costs already covered by another benefit.

If your Housing Benefit is reduced because you’re considered to have a spare bedroom in social housing, a DHP can help cover the gap while you look for a smaller home or adjust your circumstances.

If your total benefits are capped and your rent is no longer fully covered, a DHP may help while you look for work, increase your hours, or become exempt from the cap due to a change in income or family situation.

You must apply through your local council. Each council has its own process, but generally you will need to:

1. Fill out a form: Online or by post.
2. Provide evidence of:
   • Your income and expenses.
   • Your rent and tenancy agreement.
   • Any special circumstances (such as disability, illness, or family breakdown).
3. Explain why you need extra support: Be as detailed and honest as possible.

You can usually get help with your application from Citizens Advice, a housing officer, or a local advice centre.

The council will review:

• Your income and essential expenses.
• Whether the shortfall is temporary or ongoing.
• What steps you’re taking to improve your financial situation.

They’ll then decide:

• Whether to award a DHP.
• How much to give you.
• For how long.

Payments are usually made alongside your Housing Benefit or Universal Credit, often for a few weeks or months at a time. If your situation hasn’t improved by the end of that period, you may be able to reapply.

There is no formal right to appeal, but you can ask your council to review their decision, especially if your situation has changed or you believe important information was missed.

• Act quickly: don’t wait until rent arrears build up.
• Be thorough: give detailed information about your financial pressures.
• Provide evidence: include rent statements, medical letters, and anything that supports your claim.
• Be honest: councils understand that financial struggles can be complex.

Discretionary Housing Payments are there to support people in crisis or transition. While they’re not a long term solution, they can offer the vital support you need to stay in your home or secure new accommodation.

If you’re struggling with rent, don’t wait, speak to your local council today about applying for a DHP. A small amount of help at the right time can make a big difference.

Beyond housing support, there may be additional ways to reduce household costs and make your home more comfortable.

If you’re applying for a Discretionary Housing Payment or if your household is on a low income, you may also qualify for free heating or insulation upgrades through ECO4 and the Great British Insulation Scheme.

These government-funded programmes help reduce energy bills and make your home warmer, especially useful if you’re already under financial pressure.

Check your eligibility here, it’s free, quick, and could provide the extra support your family needs.

Useful Resources:

• Housing Benefit
• Universal Credit
• The Benefit Cap
• The Bedroom Tax
• Local Housing Allowance
• Find Your Local Council

Cost of Living Support Available:

• Household Support Fund (England)
• Cost of Living Payments
• Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI)
• Mortgage Guarantee Scheme
• Council Tax Reduction

ECO4 Support Available:

• Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, Energy Company Obligation
• Ofgem Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) Guidance: Delivery V1.1
• Ofgem Energy Company Obligation (ECO)
• UK Government, Help from your energy supplier: the Energy Company Obligation
• Which? Energy Company Obligation (ECO)

Other Support Available:

• Household Support Fund
• Cold Weather Payment
• Cost of Living
• Fuel Vouchers