Help with Housing Costs

Struggling to keep up with housing costs? Whether you’re renting, paying a mortgage, or facing unexpected financial challenges, there are several ways to get help with housing costs in the UK. From government schemes to charitable support, this guide will walk you through the options available to ease your financial burden.

Government Support for Housing Costs

The UK government provides several schemes and benefits to help with housing costs. These include:

Housing Benefit: If you’re on a low income or receiving certain benefits, you may qualify for Housing Benefit to help cover your rent. This is gradually being replaced by Universal Credit in most areas.
Universal Credit Housing Element: If you’re claiming Universal Credit, the housing element can help cover your rent or mortgage interest payments. The amount you receive depends on your circumstances, including your income and housing costs.
Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP): If Housing Benefit or Universal Credit doesn’t cover your full rent, you can apply for a DHP through your local council to make up the shortfall.
Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI): If you’re a homeowner on certain benefits, you may qualify for a loan to help pay the interest on your mortgage or other home loans.

To apply for these benefits, contact your local council or the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

Charitable Organisations Offering Housing Cost Support

In addition to government schemes, several charities and organisations provide help with housing costs:

Shelter: This housing charity offers free advice and support for people struggling with housing costs, including help with rent arrears and eviction prevention.
Turn2Us: Use their online benefits calculator and grants search tool to find financial support for housing costs.
Crisis: Provides support for people at risk of homelessness, including help with rent deposits and finding affordable housing.

These organisations can provide practical advice and financial assistance to help you stay in your home.

Help with Housing Costs for Specific Situations

Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for additional support:

Help for Disabled People: If you’re disabled, you may qualify for extra support through benefits like Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Attendance Allowance, which can help with housing-related costs.
Help for Young People: If you’re under 35 and struggling to afford rent, you may qualify for shared accommodation rates or support through local housing charities.
Help for Families: Families on low incomes may qualify for additional housing support through Universal Credit or local council schemes.

Crowdfunding for Housing Costs

If you’re still struggling to cover your housing costs after exploring government and charitable support, crowdfunding through JustGiving can provide a lifeline. Here’s how it works:

Quick and Easy Setup: Create a fundraising page in minutes and share it with your friends, family, and community.
Share Your Story: Explain your situation and why you need help with housing costs. People are often moved to help when they understand your challenges.
Raise What You Need: There’s no limit to how much you can raise, so you can aim to cover rent, mortgage payments, or other housing-related expenses.

Start your JustGiving fundraiser today and let your community help you stay in your home.

Practical Tips for Managing Housing Costs

In addition to seeking financial help, there are steps you can take to manage your housing costs more effectively:

Negotiate with Your Landlord: If you’re renting, speak to your landlord about reducing your rent or setting up a payment plan.
Budgeting: Create a detailed budget to track your income and expenses, ensuring you prioritise housing costs.
Energy Efficiency: Reduce utility bills by improving your home’s energy efficiency, such as using energy-saving light bulbs or insulating your home.

Take Action Today

If you’re struggling with housing costs, don’t wait to seek help. Explore government schemes, reach out to charities, and consider starting a JustGiving fundraiser to ease the financial pressure.

Create your JustGiving page now and let your community support you in managing your housing costs.