Discretionary Housing Payments

What is Discretionary Housing Payments and how to apply for a payment

The Council receives a set amount of Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) funding each year to assist customers who are charged rent, are in receipt of Housing Benefit or Universal Credit but still have a shortfall to pay towards their rent.

Discretionary Housing Payments are not continuous but short term payments. They are awarded to customers whose tenancy is at risk, have had a change in income or circumstances, or need assistance in finding cheaper suitable accommodation.

Each request for a Discretionary Housing Payment is carefully considered on its individual merits, taking into account the finances and personal circumstances of the customer. It is therefore important that as much information as possible is given by the customer when applying for this payment.

Examples of circumstances when a DHP may be awarded are:

• A relationship breakdown
• Unemployment/loss of income
• Additional expenses such as someone being ill or in hospital
• A change in Government regulations that reduces the amount of benefit paid
• A reduction in room size criteria when a member of the household moves out

Examples of what a DHP cannot be paid for:

• Rent arrears
• Loans or debts
• Reductions in income due to sanctions or a suspension on your benefit
• For water, meals, fuel or other ineligible service charges included in your rent
• To cover any shortfall in housing benefit that occurs due to an overpayment being recovered

How are payments made?

• DHPs awarded for eligible rental charges will be paid along with your award of housing benefit to you or direct to your landlord.

How to apply for a payment

If you wish to apply for a Discretionary Housing Payment please download the application form located in the 'Downloads' section to the right hand side of the screen. The form should be completed with as much information as possible to help us understand your circumstances, and then returned to the benefit section at Middlesbrough House, 50 Corporation Road, Middlesbrough, TS1 2QQ.

After your application

If we decide that we can make a payment, we will write to tell you how much you will be paid and for how long.

If we decide that we can't make a payment, we will write and tell you the reasons for our decision. As Discretionary Housing Payments are not housing benefit there are no rights of appeal against this decision under the benefit regulations. However, if you do not agree with our decision you can write to us and ask us to look at the decision again.

Further assistance

If you would like further information on Discretionary Housing Payments please contact the benefit section on 01642 726005 or by email housbens@servicemiddlesbrough.org