I saw this article this morning and thought of the countless people I have supported that face the issue of trying to secure private rented accommodation, whilst claiming benefits.

https://www.theguardian.com/society/2020/jul/14/no-dss-ruled-unlawful-after-mother-rejected-by-lettings-agency

Securing a private rented tenancy if your claiming any benefits is extremely difficult, this ladies case is a step in the right direction and will hopefully help towards changing this discriminatory ‘rule’.

This ‘rule’ affects people that are working, are fleeing domestic abuse, have disabilities and single parent families to name a few. There is a housing crisis, and has been for years and more people are renting than ever. There is not enough social housing for all the people that need it and waiting lists for years, even when you are deemed to have a ‘priority need’ by the local authority.

I hope that cases like this force landlords to change their policy of ‘No DSS’ (Department of Social Security) as it is discriminatory and unjust to assume that people claiming benefits make ‘bad tenants’. Why does accepting financial support to assist with your situation make you more likely to not pay your rent and damage the property, which I am sure are the main reasons landlords refuse these applications?

Shelter supported this case and can help you if you are experiencing housing issues or homelessness.

https://england.shelter.org.uk/

I would love to hear from you and your thoughts on this so please comment below…