RECENTLY released Government figures show an increase in UK rough sleepers – with an estimated record high of 4,793 people recorded as living on the streets during a single night last Autumn.
In response to this growing problem, a National Plan to End Homelessness has been launched – backed by a £3.5-million prevention pot over three years. North East Lincolnshire Council is set to benefit from some of this investment and, as it works with partners to strengthen support available across the borough, [CD1] we are running a series of articles that focus on the support already available for rough sleepers.
If your bills are mounting up and getting too much, there are ways you may be able to get help.
With the cost of living reported by the Office of National Statistics to have risen by 3.2 per cent over the last 12 months, it is important to know what support there is. Here are some pointers:
- Council tax support is available to people with less than £6,000 in savings – and is dependent on who is living in the home and what money is coming in. Depending on individual circumstances, the council [CD2] can offer a monthly discount on council tax of up to 65 per cent. [CD3] Discounts are available to both renters and homeowners, people who are employed and those who are unemployed , retired people, families, couples[CD4] , and single people. For more information visit: Council Tax support | NELC
- Extra council tax support payments give extra help for those who are still struggling to pay their council tax with the council tax support. This fund offers the difference between the council tax support already received and the amount still needing to be paid. To apply for this, an individual will need proof of their household income and a list of outgoing payments. For more information visit: Extra money for rent and council tax | NELC
- If you receive housing benefit or the housing element of universal credit and it isn’t covering your full rent, you could receive a discretionary housing payment (DHP). These payments are temporary to get people back on their feet. To apply for a DHP visit: https://my.nelincs.gov.uk/s/form/dhp-or-council-tax-support
- There is support available [CD5] if you are struggling to pay your council tax. Our council tax debt team can arrange payment plans and benefits to be able to support you before getting into more arrears[CD6] , which could result in bailiff and court fees on top. For help, ring 0300 3030164 (Option 2).
- Connect NEL is a phone service that operates from Centre4. Advisers can help signpost you to support and other services. To speak to an adviser call 01472 403403 between9am-5pm Monday to Thursday and 9am-3pm on a Friday.
- The Housing and Homelessness Team at North East Lincolnshire Council can help with housing situations. If you are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless you can fill in a homeless prevention form at Homelessness prevention, housing related support and housing advice | NELC, and a housing advice officer will be in touch. Alternative you can call the team on 01472 326296 Option 1 A housing officer will ask questions about your situation and what support you need, advising you on available options depending on your situation. [CD7] For more information visit the website: Homelessness prevention, housing related support and housing advice | NELC
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