Council issues Covid-19 advice to tenants
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
Highland Council tenants are being sent a bulletin with advice about a range of coronavirus-related issues, from accessing housing support to how to avoid scams.
It also contains information on energy advice, helplines, changes to homelessness services, support for anyone in rent arrears and how to continue receiving free school meals,
The bulletin provides specific information for any tenants who are shielding and gives a list of key contact details for organisations and service providers.
At the same time, members of the council’s housing team are contacting tenants to make sure they are okay or to provide advice and assistance where needed. They are doing this by text, email and phone.
One tenant who has received the briefing said: “It is very decent and kind of Highland Council to be so supportive at this very difficult time for everyone."
Councillor Ben Thompson, chairman of the housing and property committee, said: “Our housing staff are receiving lots of messages of support from tenants who are very appreciative of the work going on to keep them informed.
“As a landlord, the council’s priority is maintaining the welfare of our tenants and providing people with essential services at this difficult time, so I am glad the bulletin, which contains so much information, is being issued to tenants.
“The situation is changing daily, but the bulletin contains the most up-to-date information about where they can seek advice if they have any concerns about their wellbeing, income or other tenancy matters.”
He added: “We are continuing to carry out emergency repairs and we will ask tenants questions to make sure it is safe for a tradesperson to attend. We have issued detailed guidance to our trades and contractors to ensure they follow government guidance when carrying out repairs.”
The briefing is available on the Highland Council website.
Anyone in need of urgent help should call the council's free helpline on 0300 303 1362. If your query is related to other urgent council business, contact the service centre on 01349 886602.
