Problems paying your rent

Want to know more about Universal Credit?

The Universal Credit and you [external link] page has all the information you will need and how to apply.

If your income has reduced, you may be eligible for support in paying your council tax.

Please go to our council tax page. 

You will need to let us know if you are claiming council tax support and there has been a change to your income.

If there has been a change of circumstances they will need to re-asses your claim.

You may be worrying about how you are going to pay your utility bills.

For those on pre-payment meters, you may worry how you’re going to keep them topped up.

The government has launched an emergency package with energy suppliers.

This is to ensure you don’t face any extra hardships in heating or lighting your home during the coronavirus outbreak.

If you are struggling with money problems or are repaying a debt, options will include:

• reviewing bill payment plans, including debt repayment plans
• payment breaks or reductions in how much you pay
  giving you greater time to pay
• in some cases access to hardship funds.

Support will be available if you are having to self isolate at home.

This is if you think you can’t afford to pay for any extra gas or electricity used during self isolation.

You may be eligible for help through the local Citizens Advice Darlington.

You can contact their Community Support Scheme, please call them on 01325 734991.

Visit the Ofgem website for more information. [external link].

Please contact Northumbrian Water if you have a water meter.

They can help you if you are struggling with your payments.

You can find more information on the Northumbrian Water website. [external link],