Rental arrears aid starts with these Broadland agencies

Here in Broadland a tenant is protected from adverse circumstances that might otherwise lead to homelessness. A shared desire by council and organisation trustees to fight the causes of homelessness is what allows tenants to get help with late rent payments.

Broadland District Council

Broadland District Council is committed to helping local residents deal with budget problems before things get worse. If the Housing Options Team can diffuse a financial emergency before it explodes, then it may be possible to help a tenant remain in the same home even if they are in arrears.

The Council’s Housing List identifies available homes for rent that are administered by the housing associations serving Broadland. It is the combined resource for screening available homes to meet personal rent budgets. Those who seek council housing would need to review options with the housing associations in Broadland, since Council does not own housing stock.

Housing department officers may also be quite helpful to residents who are at risk of falling woefully behind on rent payments. Council provides this resource so that local tenants may get the help they need without making the mistake of turning to high street lenders which tend to make matters worse.

An appointment with a Housing Options Team member may be requested by calling 01603 430641. In addition to the ever-popular rent arrears issues, Council can also intervene in cases of landlord/tenant disputes and other issues that affect tenancy. Anyone not receiving housing benefit can be screened for eligibility, with assistance being provided with the application process.

MAP

The Mancroft Advice Project (MAP) provides housing advice for Broadland residents at its Norwich location. Tenants who are experiencing rent troubles may call 01603 766994 to speak with a wellbeing adviser about available options.

Appointments may be made for The Risebrow Centre on Chantry Road or at another convenient location for those who need to meet off-premises. A wide range of housing issues can be covered by an advice session.

Shelter

Shelter offers an advice centre for Broadland, which is located on Yarmouth Road in Norwich. Shelter is the leading housing assistance agency serving the UK.

A quick assessment by a Shelter adviser can determine whether a client is entitled to housing benefit or other rental aid. Each specialist can help tenants deal with debt issues, including housing arrears. To set up an appointment, residents may call 01603 431133. For out of hours emergencies, clients can call 01603 412180.

Citizens Advice Bureau

The closest CAB for most Broadland residents is on St Georges St in Norwich. Clients may call 1603 660857 to set an appointment. CAB offers specialised and confidential advice to local residents without charge. This fee-free service ensures that each person has an objective source for advice.

Tenant and landlord disputes can often be solved through careful mediation or matching with outside resources. These can include gaining welfare benefits or matching a lower-income resident with a grant. Grants are possible, and many grant making organisations provide these funds to persons who need the help to get through a temporary housing crisis.

YMCA

YMCA Norfolk provides emergency and transitional accommodation to young people who have found themselves without a place to live. Many living units have been established in nearby Norwich and surrounding areas for the benefit of those who cannot yet get established with a permanent place to live. Those aged 16 to 25 may call 01603 621263 to enquire about participating.