Manchester

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Housing Support

Information about housing benefits, rental assistance, and social housing options for residents in Manchester.

Sections

1. Types of Housing Support Available

Housing support in Manchester is primarily provided through government benefits and local council assistance. Here are the main types of support:

a. Housing Benefit

  • Purpose: Helps people on low income pay their rent.
  • Who itโ€™s for: Available to those who are renting from a private landlord, housing association, or council.
  • Key Points:
    • Housing Benefit is being replaced by Universal Credit for most new applicants (see below).
    • It is still available for certain groups, such as pensioners or those living in supported or temporary accommodation.

b. Universal Credit (Housing Element)

  • Purpose: Provides financial support for housing costs as part of a broader benefit for low-income individuals or families.
  • Who itโ€™s for: Most people of working age who need help with rent.
  • Key Points:
    • Covers rent payments for private, council, or housing association properties.
    • Payments are made directly to the claimant, who is responsible for paying their landlord.

c. Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP)

  • Purpose: Provides additional financial help if Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit does not cover the full rent.
  • Who itโ€™s for: People experiencing financial hardship who are already receiving Housing Benefit or Universal Credit (housing element).
  • Key Points:
    • Temporary and based on individual circumstances.
    • Can also help with rent arrears or moving costs.

d. Council Tax Support

  • Purpose: Reduces the amount of Council Tax you need to pay.
  • Who itโ€™s for: Low-income households, including those receiving Housing Benefit or Universal Credit.
  • Key Points:
    • Administered by Manchester City Council.
    • The amount of support depends on your income, savings, and household circumstances.

e. Support for Homelessness or Risk of Homelessness

  • Purpose: Provides emergency housing and support for those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
  • Who itโ€™s for: Anyone in Manchester who is homeless or facing eviction.
  • Key Points:
    • Includes temporary accommodation and help finding long-term housing.
    • Support is provided under the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017.

f. Charitable and Voluntary Sector Support

  • Purpose: Offers additional housing support, advice, and sometimes financial assistance.
  • Key Organizations in Manchester:
    • Shelter Manchester: Provides free housing advice and support.
    • Citizens Advice Manchester: Offers guidance on housing benefits and legal rights.
    • Mustard Tree: Supports people in poverty, including housing assistance.

2. Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for housing support depends on the type of benefit or assistance you are applying for. Below are the general criteria:

a. Housing Benefit

  • Must be on a low income or receiving other benefits (e.g., Jobseekerโ€™s Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, or Pension Credit).
  • Must be renting a property.
  • Savings must generally be below ยฃ16,000 (unless you receive Pension Credit).
  • Not available to most working-age people (apply for Universal Credit instead).

b. Universal Credit (Housing Element)

  • Must be on a low income or unemployed.
  • Must be renting a property.
  • Savings must be below ยฃ16,000.
  • Must meet residency and immigration status requirements (e.g., have the right to reside in the UK).

c. Discretionary Housing Payments

  • Must already be receiving Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit.
  • Must demonstrate financial hardship or a shortfall in rent payments.

d. Council Tax Support

  • Must live in Manchester and be responsible for paying Council Tax.
  • Must be on a low income or receiving benefits.
  • Savings must generally be below ยฃ16,000.

e. Homelessness Support

  • Must be homeless or at risk of homelessness within 56 days.
  • Must have a local connection to Manchester (e.g., live, work, or have family in the area).
  • Must not be intentionally homeless (e.g., evicted due to rent arrears caused by avoidable actions).

3. How to Apply

The application process varies depending on the type of support:

a. Housing Benefit

b. Universal Credit (Housing Element)

c. Discretionary Housing Payments

  • How to Apply: Apply through Manchester City Council.
  • Application Form: Available on the councilโ€™s website or by contacting the Housing Benefit team.

d. Council Tax Support

e. Homelessness Support

  • How to Apply: Contact Manchester City Councilโ€™s Housing Solutions Service.
  • Emergency Contact: Call 0161 234 4692 (out of hours: 0161 234 5001).

4. Associated Costs

  • Application Fees: There are no fees to apply for housing benefits or support.
  • Rent Shortfalls: If benefits do not cover the full rent, you are responsible for paying the difference.
  • Council Tax: Even with Council Tax Support, you may still need to pay a portion of your bill.

5. Local Considerations and Resources

Manchester has a high demand for affordable housing, so itโ€™s important to act quickly if you need support. Here are some local tips and resources:

a. Affordable Housing

  • Manchester City Council maintains a list of affordable housing options, including social housing and housing association properties.
  • Waiting lists for social housing can be long, so consider private renting with benefits support.

b. Charities and Advice Services

  • Shelter Manchester: Offers free advice on housing issues. Visit their office or call their helpline at 0808 800 4444.
  • Citizens Advice Manchester: Provides guidance on benefits and housing rights. Visit their website or call 0808 278 7800.
  • Mustard Tree: Supports people in poverty with housing advice and practical help. Visit their website or call 0161 850 2282.

c. Local Housing Associations

  • Housing associations like Great Places Housing Group and Northwards Housing provide affordable rental properties in Manchester.

d. Private Renting

  • If renting privately, ensure your landlord is registered and complies with local regulations. The council can provide advice on tenant rights.

e. Language and Cultural Support

  • If English is not your first language, Manchester City Council and local charities often provide translation services or multilingual advisors.

6. Key Contacts

  • Manchester City Council Housing Solutions: 0161 234 4692
  • Shelter Manchester: 0808 800 4444
  • Citizens Advice Manchester: 0808 278 7800
  • Universal Credit Helpline: 0800 328 5644

By following this guide, you should be able to navigate the housing support system in Manchester effectively. If you need further assistance, donโ€™t hesitate to reach out to the local resources mentioned above.