What is a Discretionary Housing Payment?
A Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) is a short-term payment from the Council to help cover some of your housing costs. If you have been awarded Housing Benefit or Universal Credit (which includes and allowance for housing element), but this does not cover your full rent, you can ask us to consider giving you extra financial help, known as discretionary housing payment. If you are suffering financial hardship or your tenancy is at risk, you may be able to get help from the DHP fund.
The most we can pay is the difference between the benefit you are already receiving and your eligible housing costs.
It is also available for low-income households where help is needed with the cost of moving to smaller, more suitable alternative accommodation such as removal costs, rent in advance or deposit.
There is no fixed rate for discretionary payments and all payments are calculated on your individual circumstances. Payments are usually made as a short-term measure for those experiencing difficult circumstances to assist them.
All DHP applications are assessed on individual circumstances and will not cover arrears of any kind.
Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) is funded from a special fund of money which is allocated to us each year from Government. The fund is limited and once spent, no more DHPs can be awarded.