For immediate release:

NEW £10 MILLION FUND WILL SUPPORT LOCAL RENTERS

Rutherglen MSP Clare Haughey has said a new £10 million fund announced by the SNP Government will support people struggling to pay their rent across South Lanarkshire.

The Tenant Hardship Loan Fund will open later this Autumn and offer interest-free loans to those unable to access other forms of support for their housing costs.

The Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) fund which helps tenants in receipt of benefits will also increase by £3 million, bringing the total to £19 million.

The Scottish Government has also extended legislation to protect private and social tenants from eviction until March 2021 – pending approval from Holyrood.

Commenting, Clare Haughey MSP said:

“Coronavirus is the biggest health crisis of our time, but as we look to rebuild our economy and regain a sense of normality, we can’t simply go back to how things were.

“We know that the pandemic has hit the lowest earners hardest – that’s why the Scottish Government has announced a range of measures designed at tackling inequality and supporting those who need it most.

“This new £10 million fund, coupled with existing housing benefits, will mean that no one in Cambuslang or Rutherglen should be left in a position where they can’t access support to pay their rent. “

ENDS

Notes:

https://www.gov.scot/news/supporting-tenants/

Date published: 9th September 2020