Cashpoint

Bad news for tenants as almost a third of landlords increased rents in June – the highest level of hikes since April 2016, according to the Association of Residential Letting Agents.

Average rent across England and Wales is currently £827 a month, figures from Your Move show. This is worrying on top of escalating costs for food, fuel and insurances against stagnant wages, pushing many households to the brink.

Graeme Brown, interim chief executive at Shelter, said: “Every day we speak to families who are working every hour they can, yet struggling to meet their rent and forced into debt just to keep a roof over their heads.” If you’re struggling with rent, then the quicker you get help, the more options you have. For advice on dealing with housing and rent issues, go to shelter.org.uk or call its helpline on 0808 800 4444. Alternatively, contact your local Citizens Advice.