Eastbourne renters facing eviction should act now

Eastbourne council, with the support of Citizens Advice and Brighton Housing Trust, is urging renters who have received an eviction notice to leave their homes to come forward as soon as possible, despite there being a ban on enforcing evictions.

The government brought in the nationwide ban to protect renters potentially affected by coronavirus over the winter but this runs out on January 11. Currently, landlords must give tenants at least six months’ notice of their intention to evict.

The council’s Alan Shuttleworth, cabinet member for housing, said, “It is of vital importance that anyone who finds themselves in the often-distressing situation of being notified of eviction asks for help sooner rather than later.

“We want to make sure people are given all the support they can to prevent them becoming homeless and the quicker they contact us, the more assistance will be available. Please don’t leave this until the last minute, get help now.”

Alan Bruzon, the chief officer of Citizens Advice Eastbourne, said, “We urge people not to put off dealing with financial difficulties. If you’re having any problems with reduced income or are unable to afford daily living costs get in touch. We can help you find a way forward, claim benefits, deal with debt emergencies and regain control of your finances. Our service is free, confidential and open to everyone.”

Dan Saxby, the Eastbourne advice manager from Brighton Housing Trust, said across Sussex, Brighton Housing Trust prevented more than 900 households became homeless in the past year, many of whom lived in the Eastbourne area.

He said, “We would urge people to seek advice as soon as they get into any rent or mortgage arrears and immediately if they receive any form of notice from their landlord or lender.”

To get started, contact the council at www.lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk/contact-us/ or call BHT on 01323 642615 or Citizens Advice on 03444 111 444.

For more information about housing, including support for those at risk of becoming homeless, visit www.lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk/housing/housing-factsheets