UK Bill Help

Carmarthenshire residents can get a bit of help if they are facing a financial emergency that threatens to end their tenancies prematurely. Emergency intervention is possible, especially in situations where the result could be an eviction and ultimately, homelessness. Emergency rental aid comes through these agencies that serve local residents.

The Carmarthenshire Tenancy Support Service is administered by The Wallich. The purpose of the individual projects that make up this service is to strengthen existing tenancies whenever a personal crisis is causing conflict between a tenant and their landlord. The most popular issue is rental arrears, though some disputes have arisen from family disputes or destructive behaviours.

The Tenancy Support service takes an active role to resolve situations in which eviction would be a potential outcome. It works with both landlords and tenants to resolve disagreements and repair past wrongs. Even in situations where an eviction is being pursued, an intervention could result in the landlord dropping plans to take possession over the property.

Crisis intervention may involve matching a resident with a grant available to individuals that reside in Carmarthenshire. It may include a referral to another agency or charity that is able to assist with a specific need. In situations where the resident is in temporary accommodation, the service can even assist with getting them into a permanent living situation.

Anyone that is at least age 16 and who is at risk of homelessness may get help by calling 01554 780 259.

A related option that is also supported by The Wallich is the Carmarthenshire Conflict Resolution Service. This service is specifically used to mediate a truce between family members, roommates, neighbours or between tenants and landlords. Those who need help through the service should call the Housing Options Team at 01554 899281.

The Homelessness Officer at Carmarthenshire County Council is able to provide advice to residents who are experiencing housing issues. Advice is offered to local residents who are threatened with homelessness, either through eviction from private housing or who are no longer welcome to live with friends or family. Those in temporary accommodation are also encouraged to seek a permanent solution to their housing needs.

Clients typically are homeless, live in Council housing or in a property managed by a housing association. The service is also available to homeowners who are falling behind on mortgage payments.

For enquiries call Council at 01554 899259. Those experiencing an out of hours emergency may call 01267 234567.

Arrears resulting from a prior tenancy could prevent someone from establishing a new tenancy. This can be a serious problem for people who owe a substantial sum. It can effectively bar them from most rented properties until the arrears are resolved. Housing Debt Helpline Wales was established by StepChange Debt Charity to address this major issue.

The Welsh government is one of the major financial supporters of the helpline, though some grant money from other sources also covers a portion of the cost.

A freephone hotline has been established on 0800 107 1340. Rent and mortgage arrears are eligible for assistance through this service. A financial surgery can be conducted over the telephone. In some situations, an adviser may be able to match a client with outside assistance, which could partially cure the arrears. They can also provide referrals for helping someone obtain safe housing, such as through a transitional housing program.

Gwalia can provide transitional housing for people who are about to become homeless. The primary objective is to assist individuals who have special needs, or if a family member has a special needs individual that needs supportive care. Sometimes transitional housing can be arranged to benefit the entire family. Residents may call 01554 779822 with enquiries.

Tracscare is another charity that assists certain families with transitional housing, especially when someone has special needs. Properties include Trevelyan, Gwynfryn and Cildewi House. Each provides a path towards eventual independent living when homelessness has been a concern. All of these are accessible through a referral from one of the above agencies.