Boston Borough Council helps with rent deposits

Boston Borough Council is committed to helping the homeless in the region access housing in the private rented sector. There is also pro-active assistance on keeping people housed, and the scheme from the council can provide funds for expenses such as a deposit or rent in advance. Any money paid out is also combined with free advice and support for the tenant on maintaining their property.

The scheme is wide ranging and is for people in priority need per government guidelines. There can be some exceptions made. There is also help for people sleeping rough, the homeless, and vulnerable in the region. Individuals also need to be local to the district and either on housing benefits or have a low income. The person’s savings and access to other resources will also be assessed.

Applicants will need to apply and go through an assessment process with staff from the Boston Council, but the authorities do want to reduce homelessness in the borough. So every effort is made with this in mind.

The aim of the loan provided as part of the Rent Deposit Scheme is to help people access the private sector, and this can be either a new home (for a homeless person) or helping an existing tenant relocate to a more affordable property.

If someone is found to be eligible by the council for a loan, up to £1500 will be paid to them. This can cover deposit costs, the rent in advance due to the landlord, and other expenses for the move, such as tenancy agreement fees. Repayment terms will need to be agreed to between the borrower and the council before any funds are issued, and the Boston council can take action against the resident if this is not done.

The property selected by the family or individual will need to be inspected by the council. This is done in order to ensure it is both safe and affordable to live in. The council will need to approve the monthly rent payments due, and this is even required if the person is on benefits. Other eligible conditions include an assessment of the tenancy agreement terms and the credit history of the borrower.

There are other homeless prevention services provided in the district, and this is in addition to the deposit scheme. The council will also want struggling tenants to contact them as soon as possible in order to seek any assistance, as when someone is too far in arrears on their rent, options are limited.

Other assistance to people threatened by homelessness, and this is in addition to the rent deposit scheme for moving, includes sign posting to the Boston Citizens Advice Bureau for free advice. The client can get support with budgeting as well as maximising their income, and these two services can help the individual stay housed. There is also mediation provided between the landlord and tenant to find a solution.

To learn more information, or to apply to the Boston Council scheme, an application needs to be done to the council Housing Aid and Advice Team. Residents can stop by the council office, apply only, or also ring them at 01205 314200 for more information on the loan scheme or other programmes which may help them in their time of need. Or residents can drop in at Citizens Advice for referrals to the programme.