Jun

Will England follow suit? Scots Landlords welcome £10m rent arrears grant scheme

admin

Landlords have welcomed another cash boost for Scotland’s struggling tenants aimed at ensuring eviction is used a last resort.

A new £10 million grant fund to support those needing help to pay their rent as a direct result of Covid follows the launch of its £10 million tenant hardship loan fund last December, offering an interest free loan.

Last week, it extended its evictions ban to 31st March 2022, with the potential to be extended until 30th September 2022.

The Scottish Association of Landlords says its members have been working closely with tenants to reduce rents and write off arrears wherever possible and that the overwhelming majority of tenants and landlords are working together to sustain tenancies during the pandemic.

Chief executive John Blackwood (pictured) adds: “We welcome the Scottish Government emphasising that tenants have a responsibility to pay their rent and encourage landlords to work with their tenants and always treat eviction action as a last resort.”

Housing Secretary Shona Robison says the grant fund will be available later in the year and that it will work with stakeholders over the coming weeks to develop the details.

“We have been clear from the outset that eviction action must be an absolute last resort,” says Robinson.

“When landlords are flexible with their tenants, signposting them to the range of financial support that is available and coming to agreements to prevent and manage rent arrears, this sustains tenancies and keeps people in their homes, benefitting everyone.”

Ministers have promised to explore policies and financial support available for supporting sustainable tenancies and to work to improve their understanding of those evictions that do take place.

A new campaign raising awareness of tenants’ rights will launch by the end of the year.

View Full Article: Will England follow suit? Scots Landlords welcome £10m rent arrears grant scheme