Groups united in opposition to benefit cuts

Councillors oppose housing benefit cuts

More than half the Conservative and Lib Dem councillors in England oppose government changes to housing benefit, a survey reveals.

Campaigners demand choice on direct payment

A group of organisations has called on the work and pensions secretary to allow tenants to have their benefits paid directly to landlords.

Research casts doubt on benefit cut claims

Housing bodies are demanding a rethink of housing benefit cuts after research cast doubt on the justification for the plans.

Pushed out

Changes to the shared accommodation rate will force thousands of vulnerable people out of their one-bedroom flats and into houseshares. Emily Rogers investigates the impact

Doubts by the dozen

A charitable case for relief

Exemptions from CIL are available but it’s advisable to check the details, says Mark Burrows, associate at Penningtons Solicitors

Hidden menace

Cash-strapped tenants can make their situation worse by turning to loan sharks. Darren Reynolds explains why landlords have waded in to help tackle the problem

Casting the net for a home

A website aimed solely at local housing allowance claimants is helping people find homes. Lydia Stockdale logs on

Cold cottage rescue

Isolation from mains gas can spell financial hardship. Alex Turner investigates how Cornish landlords are exploring renewable energy solutions to rural fuel poverty

Cheated out of their savings

Abusive financial practices targeting the elderly are on the rise, but so are measures to protect vulnerable housing association residents. Alex Turner reports