Published Date: Nov 2nd, 2021
The Scottish Government has set up a grant fund to help tenants in the private sector and social housing at risk of becoming homeless because they’ve fallen behind with rent payments during the pandemic. Fife Council will administer the funding allocation for tenants in Fife, which is available between now and 21 March 2022.
Fife Council’s Community & Housing Services Convener, Cllr Judy Hamilton said: “Families and tenants are struggling, following months of furlough, job uncertainty and returning to work that can be precarious after COVID.
“We have supported people through the assistance we have made available. Through COVID and through changes to Universal Credit, local government has stepped up and supported our tenants.
“However, private landlords aren’t in a position to provide the same level of support. This new grant will help tenants and landlords who have struggled financially in this pandemic.
"It is a pandemic grant, and anyone who has accrued their arrears between 23 March 2020 and 9 August 2021 can apply. Our team will assess cases to make sure the money available is used to support households at the greatest risk of becoming homeless.
“Depending on your circumstances, a grant could either reduce or completely pay-off any rent arrears. And the money doesn’t have to be repaid. So, if you’re a tenant in Fife, please apply to this fund to remove the anxiety of Covid-related arrears and feel secure in your home again.”
Private tenants or landlords can apply for grant funding at www.fife.gov.uk/tenantgrants
If you’re a Fife Council or social housing tenant, please speak to your housing or rent officer first.