What is the Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) scheme?
The DHP scheme provides extra financial help for people who are struggling to pay their rent. It is for individuals who already receive Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit but still can’t afford their full rent.
DHP is usually awarded for short-term support, and decisions are made case by case.
Please note:
- DHP cannot be used to cover certain costs included in some rent charges, such as water, fuel, or food.
- In some situations, DHP can help with rent in advance or rental deposits, but you must provide evidence to support your application.
Update (January 2026) - our Discretionary Housing Payment fund for 2025/26 is now closed to new applications.
We are currently working through applications already received and will be contacting residents with an outcome as soon as we have assessed their application.
New funding will be available from April 2026 and will become known as the Crisis and Resilience Fund Housing Payment. Further information will be published on our website in due course.
If you are a council tenant, please contact your housing officer who can advise you on alternative support available.
Our cost of living page has further information about other funding and help available.
