Introduction
What are discretionary housing payments?
A Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) is an additional payment over and above your housing benefit or universal credit housing costs to help towards your rent costs.
Who can apply?
You can apply for a DHP if you are in receipt of housing benefit or universal credit (which includes housing costs towards your rent) and you are struggling to meet your full rent costs.
How do I apply?
DHP application forms are available in all First Stop Shops. Alternatively, you can download a form below or contact us to request a copy.
When would a discretionary housing payment be considered?
DHPs are discretionary and can be given if you require some further financial assistance to meet your housing costs. The Department of Works and Pensions has provided additional funding to assist if you are affected by welfare reform changes including the under-occupancy charge (bedroom tax), benefit cap and local housing allowance reforms.
We have supplemented this fund to the maximum permitted under current legislation. There is a cash limit that the council can spend in each financial year and we cannot exceed this. However, for under-occupancy cases (bedroom tax) the Scottish Government provides full funding to cover the shortfall.
Discretionary Housing Payment Application
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