Free event for private landlords on the new Universal Credit scheme

Now that the Government’s new Universal Credit scheme has been introduced the City Council is hosting a special event to explain the changes for private landlords.

Universal Credit is a single monthly payment for people in or out of work, which merges together some of the benefits and tax credits that people currently receive. Universal Credit has replaced income-based Jobseekers’ Allowance, Income-related Employment and Support Allowance.  At present only new JSA claimants who are single people are affected, but Universal Credit will roll out to other groups.

The special event has been organised by the City Council and the South West Landlords’ Association after Landlords raised concerns about the change as it effectively means that housing benefit will no longer exist for new claimants and the occasions when benefit can go direct to a landlord are very restricted.

Councillor Chris Penberthy, Cabinet Member for Cooperatives and Housing for Plymouth City Council, said: “We know that the introduction of the Governments new Universal credit scheme would bring concerns for vulnerable residents and private landlords alike.

“While the change takes effect we want to make sure that that landlords and agents understand the changes and how it will impact on tenants who rely on benefits. The biggest change now is that tenants will receive one benefit payment and have to meet their rent and other costs from it.”

The session will cover what budgeting and payment support is available for tenants who need help to move to the new system.  This includes conditions around how to access alternative payment arrangements if claimants are finding it hard to manage their Universal Credit payment and pay their landlord themselves.

The free event takes place on Thursday 4 February 7pm in the Mendel Room at the Future Inn in Derriford. Parking is free but you do need to register your car at reception when you arrive.