How we decide
We'll look at your individual circumstances to decide whether to award a DHP. We aim to make sure payments are made to those who are most in need.
Examples of when we might award a DHP
Here are just a few examples of when we may or may not award a Discretionary Housing Payment. They do not cover all the circumstances so if you're not sure and you're struggling to pay your rent, please apply anyway.
We may award a DHP if:
- You can't move to somewhere smaller or less expensive because someone in your family has serious health problems.
- You're pregnant and have moved into a more suitable home for when your child is born. Your Housing Benefit is restricted because your property is considered too big for one person until your child is born.
- Your home has been specially adapted for your or your family member's needs.
- You're affected by the benefit cap which means you're not receiving the maximum amount of Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit.
- You need to move home because your current property is dangerous or unacceptable. You've found a more suitable property to move to but don't have enough money to pay the bond or deposit.
We won't normally award a DHP if we think you can deal with the shortfall in other ways, such as claiming other benefits you're entitled to, negotiating any debt repayments or cutting down on unnecessary and avoidable expenses.