Anyone claiming housing benefit or help through Universal Credit can apply for a discretionary housing payment (DHP).

You can apply if: 

  • local housing allowance is lower than rent in private rented property
  • housing benefit or Universal Credit is lowered because of non-dependant deductions or housing costs contributions
  • housing benefit or Universal Credit is reduced because you are of working age, and you have a spare bedroom in social rented property
  • housing benefit or Universal Credit is reduced due to the benefit cap

A DHP can help with:

  • rent deposit
  • rent in advance for a property you haven't moved into yet (you must receive housing benefit on your current home)
  • lump sum for costs like removals

A DHP cannot help with:

  • increases in rent due to arrears
  • the difference if an overpayment is being recovered from your housing benefit
  • certain sanctions or reductions in benefit

For an application form contact us and ask for one to be sent to you. They are also available from your registered social landlord.