Housing payments (previously Descretionary Housing Payments) provide extra financial help to Oldham residents who receive Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit but are still struggling to pay their housing costs.
It can also help with rent deposits or tenancy bonds if you need to move home and want to avoid going into temporary accommodation.
Support
The scheme offers three types of help:
- Housing Payments: Extra money to cover the gap between the amount of benefit you recieve and what your rent actually costs.
Who can apply
You can apply if:
- You live in Oldham Borough
- You receive Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit
- You have a shortfall between your benefit and your rent, or you’re at risk of homelessness
- 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 circumstances and the funding available.
Apply
Online
Complete the online application form.
Housing payments application form
Phone
Contact the Benefits Team to discuss you situation and get help applying:
- 0161 770 8122
In person
Visit the Customer Service Center at Spindles Shoping centre for assisted support:
West Street
Oldham
OL1 1HD
What evidence you'll need
You will need to provide:
- 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 review your application and consider your circumstances, the level of risk, and the funding available. They may contact you for additional information.
If your application is successful, you will be told:
- What type and amount of support has been awarded
- How and when payment will be made (e.g. directly to your landlord or into your account)
- Any conditions attached to the award
- Whether you will be referred to other support services
If your application is unsuccessful, we will explain why and provide information about other available support and your right to request a review.
If you are unhappy with a decision
Housing Payments are discretionary, which means there is no statutory appeals process. However, you can request an explanation of the decision or ask for a review within 10 working days of being notified.
You can request an explanation by email or post:
- Email: LWP.CrisisPayments@oldham.gov.uk
- Post: Local Welfare Provision and Crisis Payments Team, Spindles Shopping Centre, West Street, Oldham, OL1 1LF
Your review will be carried out by someone who was not involved in the original decision.