Struggling to pay for your home
Before applying for council housing or temporary accommodation, it’s important to consider other housing options.
These could include:
- the private rented sector
- moving out of the Borough
- getting support with debt or rent arrears
We will aim to make staying in your current home a priority.
If you struggling to pay for your current home
You may be entitled to benefits that can help with your rent or living costs.
Use these links below to check if you are entitled and how much you might get:
- use a benefits calculator to check if you are receiving all the benefits you are entitled to
- find information about how to claim benefits on GOV.UK
- you may be able to apply for a Discretionary Housing Payment to help with rent or housing costs.
If you need help with your finances and budgeting, you can get free advice from:
- Citizens Advice - guidance on creating a household budget and managing finances
- MoneyHelper - support if you are facing money troubles
If you are struggling to pay rent
If you fall behind with rent payments, this is called rent arrears.
It is important to deal with rent arrears as soon as possible. If arrears continue to increase, this could lead to eviction. If this happens you are unlikely to be eligible for council or other social housing.
If you rent privately
If you are struggling to pay rent for a privately rented home, speak to your landlord straight away.
The Shelter website provides guidance on how to deal with rent arrears and speak to your landlord.
If you rent a council home
If you are struggling to pay your rent on your council home contact the council to discuss a repayment plan.
- Call the customer service team on: 01753 475111
- Email: rentrecovery@slough.gov.uk
If your home is no longer affordable
If your current property is no longer affordable, we may be able to help you consider other housing options, such as:
- downsizing to a smaller property
- finding cheaper accommodation
Contact us to discuss the options available to you.