Housing payments (previously Discretionary Housing Payments) give extra financial help to Oldham residents who get Housing Benefit or Universal Credit but still can’t afford their housing costs.
Who can apply
You can apply if:
- You live in Oldham Borough
- You receive Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit
- Your benefit doesn’t cover all your rent, or you might become homeless
- You can’t meet your housing costs from your own income or savings
All awards are discretionary, which means they’re not guaranteed and depend on your situation and the funding available.
Apply
Online
Complete the online application form.
Housing payments application form
Phone
Contact the Benefits Team to discuss your situation and get help applying:
- 0161 770 8122
In person
Visit the Customer Service Centre at Spindles Shopping Centre for assisted support:
Customer Service Centre
Spindles Shopping Centre
West Street
Oldham
OL1 1HD
What you’ll need to provide
You’ll need:
- Proof of identity and address (e.g. passport, driving licence, utility bill)
- Proof of Housing Benefit or Universal Credit
- Your tenancy or rental agreement
- Evidence of rent shortfall or risk (e.g. arrears or eviction notices)
- Bank statements to show your income and spending
What happens after you apply
A Benefits Officer will look at your application, your situation, any risks, and the funding available. They may contact you if they need more information.
If your application is successful, we will tell you:
- What support you will get and how much
- How and when it will be paid (for example, to your landlord or into your account)
- Any conditions you need to follow
- If you’ll be referred to other support services
If your application is not successful, we will explain why and tell you about other support and how to ask for a review.
If you are unhappy with a decision
Housing Payments are discretionary, which means there is no statutory appeals process. However, you can ask us to explain the decision or request a review within 10 working days of being told the outcome.
You can do this by:
- Email: benefits@oldham.gov.uk
- Post: Oldham Benefits Service Spindles Shopping Centre, West Street, Oldham, OL1 1LF
Your review will be carried out by someone who was not involved in the original decision.