What is the Discretionary Housing Fund?
The Discretionary Housing Fund is designed to provide short-term support for exceptional and unforeseen pressures that means that someone on Housing Benefit can’t pay their rent.
The person affected might be suffering poor health or facing financial issues, and this limited fund can help those in this position. As it is a limited fund, we have a limit on the amount of support that can be provided in a financial year. So, there’s no guarantee you’ll be successful when applying. If you meet the criteria though, do apply.
Our Discretionary Housing Payment Policy is available to download and provides details of the main features of the DHP scheme and how it’s operated.
Claiming a Discretionary Housing Payment Policy (DHP)
To be able to claim a DHP, you must currently receive housing benefit, or the housing element of Universal Credit.
DHPs can cover the costs of:
- A shortfall in rent
- Restrictions in Housing Benefit due to the number of people in your household and the number of bedrooms in your home. This is known as the social sector size criteria
- Restrictions in Housing Benefit due to the benefit cap
- Rent in advance if you’re moving home
- Help with removal costs
DHP is independent from housing benefit and any award is discretionary.
Please note that you can’t get a DHP if your rent shortfall is due to a benefit overpayment or suspension.
Apply for a DHP
Apply for a Discretionary Housing Payment If you need more information, please email benefits.
If you’re a landlord access the Landlord Portal below.
Access the Landlord Portal