Tenants who find themselves struggling to pay for their rent are encouraged to contact Mendip District Council's Housing Options Team for advice and support, as early as possible, to help prevent them becoming homeless.

The Council's experienced and knowledgeable Officers are on hand to assist tenants facing financial difficulties, and find solutions to ensure residents do not become homeless.

Cllr Richard Pinnock, Portfolio Holder for Housing Services and Governance, said: "Our dedicated team will ensure that anyone who contacts them are supported, either through financial means, through giving expert advice or by signposting them to appropriate partner organisations such as Citizen Advice Mendip.

"Anyone who is worried about how they are going to pay for their rent, or if you're already in arrears, please contact the Housing Options Team today, on 0300 303 8588."

Ian Byworth, CEO of Citizens Advice Mendip, said: "Getting advice when you're facing a debt problem can really help and, in this instance, getting advice could also result in some much-needed financial support."

Mendip District Council received funding from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities to create a Tenancy Hardship Scheme. The scheme is ringfenced to support low-income renters, with Covid-19-related rent arrears, through a one-off payment, to reduce the risk of them being evicted and becoming homeless.

To access the Tenancy Hardship Scheme, please contact the Housing Options Team by calling 0300 303 8588 or visit the Council's website at www.mendip.gov.uk/covidarrears.

• You can contact the Housing Options Team 0300 303 8588.
• Visit the Council's website for information about debt prevention: www.mendip.gov.uk/debtprevention.
• Are you, or someone you know, at risk of homelessness? Local services and support are available. Call 0300 303 8588 or make a homeless application online: www.mendip.gov.uk/housing.
• Perhaps you're rough sleeping, or concerned that someone is rough sleeping in Mendip? You can make a referral to StreetLink either online or by contacting the rough sleeper referral line on 0300 500 0914. Visit, www.streetlink.org.uk.