I don’t have live access to current news right now. Here’s how you can quickly check the latest on Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP):
- Government/statistics updates: Check the UK GOV.uk DHP statistics page for the latest official figures and policy notes. This is the primary source for national context and any changes to schemes like DHP [web: gov.uk/discretionary-housing-payments-statistics].
- Local authority news: Since DHP is administered locally, see announcements from your nearest council (e.g., housing or benefits pages). Some councils have updated policies about CRF integration or funding end dates, which can affect eligibility and awards [web: e.g., Bromley DHP page].
- National guidance and fund changes: Look for recent guidance about the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF) and any transitions from DHP to CRF or other support streams, as these explain why DHP awards may change or end in some areas [web: Bromley example mentions CRF transition].
If you’d like, I can help you search for the latest articles from specific councils or compile a quick summary once you provide permission to search live. I can also tailor guidance to Santa Clara, California, if you’re looking for U.S. equivalents or local programs.
Would you like me to search for the most recent DHP updates from UK councils or pull the latest national statistics?
Sources
Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs) can be paid to those entitled to Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit who face a shortfall in meeting their housing costs. Local authorities have broad discretion to spend in line with their local priorities. This includes deciding how much will be paid and the length of the award. A DHP can be awarded to cover a rent shortfall, a rent deposit, rent in advance, or other costs associated with moving.
www.gov.ukRead our archive of news items
www.arun.gov.ukFinancial Support For Private Tenants Forcing Shortfall In Their Rent
www.4ni.co.ukintegrating Discretionary Housing Payments within CRF. This means for the financial years 2026/27 and 2027/28 the allocation of DHPs will be maintained at the 2025/26 level. 3.11 Further details will be presented to the Board once the DWP issues definitive
councillors.halton.gov.ukIn a significant change in policy, DHP will now cease for people who have been receiving this help for two years or more. It is planned that the maximum award for people who remain eligible to keep DHP or make a new claim will be limited to £20 per week. This means that for some people there will be a shortfall between their rent and benefits. The changes come after a decision by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive as a direct consequence of severe and immediate budgetary pressures. Owen...
www.lawcentreni.orgDiscretionary housing payment (DHP).
www.bromley.gov.ukStatistics on local authorities' use of Discretionary Housing Payment funds.
www.gov.ukThere is no limit to length of time over which Discretionary Housing Payments can be made
www.turn2us.org.uk