Originally published 19 March 2020 and updated 4 February 2021
We continue to monitor government announcements relating to rent and other payments as well as support through the benefits system. However, there are currently no plans for a ‘rent holiday’ and your contractual rent will continue to be charged. WDH is committed to providing support and advice and ensuring that no tenant faces the added concern of losing their home as a result of this situation.
If your financial circumstances have changed as a result of the Covid-19, you may need to contact the DWP or the local authority Housing and Council Tax Benefit Service in your area, for advice in relation to any support you may now be entitled to.
Click here for more information, if you are worried about paying your rent during Covid-19.
You need to seek advice about support towards your rent payments and living costs and we would advise that you contact the DWP; we cannot give specific advice about any benefit entitlement as this is influenced by many factors.
If you have lost your job due to Covid-19, our employment advisors are available to help you get back into employment. Please click here for more information and how to contact them.
We cannot change the timing of the ‘rent free weeks’ but will give you advice around your payment arrangements and look to reach a mutually acceptable agreement that you are able to keep.
We want to make sure that tenants and employees are kept safe and well, so we have put a number of measures in place to minimise the risk of exposure to the virus for you and our employees.
If someone from WDH does need to visit your home for essential work this will be undertaken with your safety as a priority. They will have the right Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and will follow all procedures, in line with current guidance.
If we do need to postpone a visit, we will contact you to let you know.
Don’t forget that you can still contact us 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 0345 8 507 507 or contact us on email or through the WDH App.
Many households are facing additional financial stress due to the impacts of Covid-19. Our Cash Wise team can help our customers to manage your finances, save you money and help you to apply for Universal Credit. The Cash Wise team also offers a full financial health check to help maximise your income and help you to reduce your monthly outgoings and bills, where possible. The team can also provide one to one support to help you get the most out of your money and your tenancy. For more information, click here.
Covid-19 has highlighted the importance of looking after your mental health and wellbeing. During this time, our Wellbeing team has continued to support over 500 tenants, over the phone and when guidelines have allowed, face to face. If you are struggling with your mental health or wellbeing, please click here to complete a referral form and a member of the team will contact you.
There are a number of community hubs set up across the Wakefield district to support you and your loved ones during the pandemic. For more information click here.