Council highlights free mortgage advice to those in need
News release issued:
People who are facing difficulties with their mortgage are being encouraged to contact Wyre Forest District Council. Anyone who is in arrears with their mortgage can get free advice from the Council’s housing team before court action is taken. Residents can contact the housing team by email at or call 01562 732990 (9am - 5pm Monday – Friday, 10am – 5pm on Wednesday) excluding bank holidays.
Lots of useful information can be found on the Council’s mortgage advice webpage, including how to talk to your lender, support for mortgage interest (SMI) and avoiding repossession. Visit the Council's mortgage advice webpage to find out more.
Advice can also be found through the new Housing Loss Prevention Advice Service (HLPAS), which was launched by the government on 1 August 2023. The HLPAS allows people who have received a written notice for possession to receive free legal assistance. Homeowners can visit the government's legal advice website where they will need to type in their postcode and tick the box ‘Housing Loss Preventions Advice Service’ to find advisors near them.
Councillor Ian Hardiman, Wyre Forest District Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for Housing, Health and Wellbeing said:
“Households are facing a lot of pressure at the moment, with more people than ever struggling to pay their mortgage due to increased interest rates and the cost of living crisis.
It’s absolutely vital that people get the advice they need before court action is taken, I urge anyone who is in arrears to contact the Council’s housing team and take advantage of the new government HLPAS scheme.”