The Scottish Government has launched a new fund to help tenants at risk of eviction.
And Motherwell and Wishaw MSP Clare Adamson has welcomed the relief package aimed at helping tenants struggling financially as a direct result of the pandemic.
Councils across Scotland have been given £10 million to provide grants to tenants who have fallen behind on their rent due to the pandemic.
The grants will allow people to reduce or pay off their rent arrears and will be available to tenants in both the private and social rented sectors.
SNP MSP Ms Adamson said: “The pandemic has seen a spike in demand for housing support. Our Motherwell and Wishaw community is no different.
“I am urging landlords, including the local authority, to continue to show flexibility and discretion in the most challenging times.
“This Scottish Government grant funding will provide targeted support to tenants who are most at risk of eviction due to the pandemic.
“If you are worried about making rent then do not delay in contacting your local authority housing office - make them aware of your circumstances.
“People are there to help and support you. They have been working flat out alongside organisations like Citizens Advice and Shelter Scotland.
“Do not suffer in silence – reach out and examine the support options available.”
This is part of a package of measures available to local authorities to prevent homelessness, alongside Discretionary Housing Payments and advice on maximising income.
The grants also come on top of the Scottish Government’s £10 million Tenant Hardship Loan Fund.
The grant funding will be available until the end of March 2022. There is no application process for a tenant or landlord to use for the grant funding.
Instead local authorities will use their discretion to determine whether a grant payment is appropriate in individual circumstances.
