Grant for tenants in arrears

THE Welsh Government has announced a £10m Tenancy Hardship Grant for tenants in the private rented sector have fallen behind on their rent by more than eight weeks between March 1, 2020 and June 30, 2021, to help them stay in their homes and prevent them losing their tenancies.

The grant is designed to support tenants who are struggling to pay rent due to a drop in income as a result of the pandemic.

Rent arrears may have been as a result of a loss of income due to furlough, a reduction in work or because they were only able to claim Statutory Sick Pay when ill with Covid-19.

The grant, which is being administered by local authorities, is open to people who are not receiving housing-related benefits. It replaces the Tenancy Saver Loan, which was introduced in October 2020. Anyone who received a loan will have that loan converted to a grant.

Bridgend council’s cabinet member for wellbeing and future generations Dhanisha Patel said: “The Tenancy Hardship Grant aims to help those in need and save people and families from the trauma of being evicted and made homeless.

“If you live in private rented accommodation and have developed rent arrears during the period of March 20 and June 21 as a direct result of the pandemic you may be eligible for the grant and we would encourage you to contact us.

“We would also urge anyone who is struggling to pay their rent – even if they’re just starting to have difficulties – to contact their landlord or agent and organisations like Citizen’s Advice or Shelter Cymru so they receive the right advice and support.

Applications are made through the local authority. To apply to Bridgend council, please email housing@ bridgend.gov.uk . Please include ‘THG Support Grant’ as the subject line of your email.