Legal News

Research from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation has shown that most people affected by the bedroom tax have remained in their homes – although half of them are in rent arrears.

The Socialist Worker reports that 22% of tenants wanting to move to a smaller home are still waiting – and just 6% of those affected by the bedroom tax have actually moved.

Last week, bedroom tax protesters took to the streets in Basildon in Essex and in Salford in Manchester in support of tenants being evicted for being in rent arrears as a result of having their housing benefit cut because they have a spare bedroom. In Manchester, the protesters helped win a stay of execution for a tenant due to be evicted partly because of rent arrears caused by the bedroom tax.

In Basildon, protesters campaigned outside Basildon County Court where the council was taking possession proceedings against a couple who have tried to downsize but have been unable to because of a shortage of smaller one- and two-bedroom council properties. The couple’s debt problems became worse as a result of the husband’s job loss due to ill health.

Basildon Crown Court gave the couple a suspended possession order to allow them more time.

The Socialist Worker also reports that in Camden, north London last week, bedroom tax protesters were dragged away by police during the attempted eviction of a man suffering from a mental health condition.

Duncan Lewis Housing Solicitors

Duncan Lewis housing solicitors can advise tenants on issues such as Local Authority housing, housing benefit and housing possession, as well as Landlord & Tenant disputes and unlawful eviction.

Duncan Lewis is also one of the country’s leading providers of Legal Aid services.

For expert help with housing law contact Duncan Lewis housing solicitors on 020 7923 4020.