Housing Support Options for Single Parents in Wales

Finding the right housing support as a single parent in Wales can feel overwhelming, especially if you're dealing with high rent, possible eviction, or housing repairs. Wales offers various financial assistance and social housing options tailored to meet the needs of single-parent renters. This guide explains your rights and outlines the main support channels available.

Understanding Your Housing Options in Wales

Single parents in Wales may access a mix of affordable housing, social housing, and benefit schemes. Each option is meant to ease the burden of renting or finding suitable accommodation.

1. Social Housing for Single Parents

Social housing is managed by local authorities and registered social landlords, offering lower rents and secure tenancies compared to the private sector. To apply, contact your local council in Wales.

• How to apply: Complete your local council's application (typically an online housing application form).
• Priority need: Single parents with dependent children are usually given priority status under Welsh homelessness legislation.

For full legal rights as a social housing tenant, see the Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016.^[1]

2. Local Housing Allowance (LHA)

If you rent privately, you may be eligible for support with your rent through Universal Credit or Housing Benefit. The Local Housing Allowance (LHA) is the maximum housing benefit paid, and it's based on local rates.

• Check your LHA rate using the official LHA calculator.
• You'll need to provide proof of tenancy, rent charges, and income.

Apply via:

• Universal Credit (DWP) (for most new claims)
• Housing Benefit via your local council (if you qualify)

Key Form: Housing Benefit claim form (HCTB1): Use this if you're not eligible for Universal Credit, such as if you're receiving a pension. Submit to your local authority.^[2]

3. Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP)

If your benefits don't cover your full rent, you can apply for a Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP) through your local council for short-term extra help. This may be used to cover rent shortfalls or help with housing-related costs during financial hardship.

• Apply using your council’s DHP application form or portal. Find your council at the Welsh Government local authority directory.
• Provide documentation showing your rent, income, and reasons for hardship or need.

Example: If your Universal Credit housing element does not fully cover your rent, and your landlord is seeking payment of arrears, apply for DHP as soon as possible.

4. Help if You Are Threatened with Homelessness

Under the Housing (Wales) Act 2014, local authorities must help anyone threatened with homelessness within 56 days. As a single parent, you're considered in 'priority need', so your council must offer support.

• Contact your local council’s housing options team and ask for a homelessness assessment.
• Gather proof of your current tenancy, children’s details, and any eviction notices.

Key Form: There is no standard national form; contact your council for their ‘Homelessness application form.’ Staff will help you complete it.

5. Other Benefits and Support

Single parents may also be eligible for:

• Universal Credit (for rent and living costs)
• Support for Mortgage Interest (if you move to buying a home)
• Discretionary Housing Payments

Understanding Your Legal Protections and Where to Get Help

Single-parent renters in Wales have additional legal protections and can ask the Residential Property Tribunal Wales for help with certain tenancy disputes, such as deposit disputes or rent increases.

Relevant legislation in Wales:

• Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016
• Housing (Wales) Act 2014

Always ensure that your landlord provides the correct notice if asking you to leave, and seek advice if you're unsure of your rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What support is available if I can’t afford my rent as a single parent?
   You may qualify for Housing Benefit or Universal Credit. If these don't cover your rent, ask your council about Discretionary Housing Payments for extra support.
2. How do I apply for social housing in Wales?
   Apply through your local council’s housing register, providing proof of your single parent status and details about your children.
3. Can I get help if I’m about to be evicted with my children?
   Yes. Contact your local council immediately—they have a legal duty to help single parents with dependent children threatened with homelessness.
4. Which tribunal deals with tenancy issues in Wales?
   The Residential Property Tribunal Wales handles disputes, including rent increases and deposit claims.
5. What if my landlord won’t repair the property?
   Raise the issue in writing and, if unresolved, contact your local council’s private sector housing team or seek help from the Residential Property Tribunal Wales.

Key Takeaways for Single Parents Renting in Wales

• Several schemes and benefits can help single parents with rent and finding affordable accommodation.
• Local councils are legally required to support single-parent families threatened with homelessness.
• Apply as early as possible, and seek advice if your housing situation becomes difficult.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Welsh Government Housing Support
• Residential Property Tribunal Wales
• Shelter Cymru – Renting and Housing Advice
• Find Your Local Council in Wales

---

1. Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 — Primary legislation for tenancies in Wales.
2. Housing Benefit claim form (HCTB1).

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent, Deposits & Increases Tenancy Types & Agreements Moving In & Out Procedures Repairs, Maintenance & Housing Standards Eviction Notices & Repossessions Shared Housing, HMOs & Lodgers Discrimination, Harassment & Accessibility Utilities, Bills & Council Tax Affordable Housing, Social Housing & Benefits Dispute Resolution & Housing Tribunals Health, Safety & Fire Regulations Privacy, Landlord Entry & Surveillance Unusual & Special Tenancy Situations Renters’ Insurance & Liability Homelessness Support & Post-Eviction Help Landlord Duties, Licensing & Penalties Housing Law, Legal Updates & Case Studies Mental Health, Disability & Vulnerable Renters’ Rights Rent Repayment Orders & Compensation