DISCRETIONARY HOUSING PAYMENTS
What is a Discretionary Housing Payment?
From 2, July 2002 the Discretionary Housing Payment Scheme was introduced.
Peterborough City Council is allocated a set amount of money
from Central Government in order to increase the amount of money
that can be paid to individuals who have exceptional
circumstances.
It is not Housing Benefit or Council Tax Benefit. We are able
to award benefit up to maximum amount a person is liable for in
rent or council tax.
Who is entitled to Discretionary Housing Payments?
Any one who is currently in receipt of Housing Benefit and/or
Council Tax Benefit can apply.
A Discretionary Housing Payment can be awarded up to the
amount you are being charged for Rent and /or Council Tax that is
not already being met by Housing Benefit or Council Tax
Benefit.
Please note that an award may not always cover your Rent or
Council Tax liability in full.
It can be paid as a one off payment or can be added to the
amount of benefit you already receive and will only be awarded for
the period while your exceptional circumstances exist.
How can I apply?
You can visit our office and complete a form or request one by
telephone.
Or download the application form below.
(68 KB, 5 pages)
A decision letter will be sent to you advising you of your
entitlement.
Who can I contact to see how my request is getting on?
You can telephone the Appeals Team on 01733 452676
or
Visit the Customer Services Centre located at Bayard
Place (opposite the Central Library, Broadway).
or
Email the Appeals Team at benappeals@peterborough.gov.uk.