The Welfare Reform Act 2007 introduced the Local Housing Allowance scheme which comes into effect from 7th April 2008 and changes the way in which Housing Benefit is calculated and paid to people living in private rented sector accommodation.

The aim of the reforms is to prevent tenants that are likely to experience difficulties, from falling into rent arrears and ultimately face the risk of being evicted.

One of the objectives of the Housing Benefit reforms is also to encourage tenants to take responsibility for their rent payments and the Council must therefore balance the provisions available to pay the landlord direct with the need to promote the aims of the Housing Benefit Reforms.

To find out more information please download our Local Housing Allowance Safeguards Policy and Local Guidance documents.

You can also download an application form to make a local housing allowance payment to your landlord.