NEARLY 1,400 households across East Lancashire have been given urgent advice on preparing for the introduction of the controversial ‘bedroom tax’.

Government penalties for the under-occupation of social housing are set to be introduced from April 1.

And it is estimated that some working age tenants on housing benefit will have to find at least an extra £12 per week.

Currently there are more than 1,000 tenants in Twin Valley Homes, in Blackburn and Darwen, and a further 380 Housing Pendle properties, which stand to be affected by the move. Tenants have been visited by housing officers from both organisations, which are each part of the Together Housing Group.

Discussions have been ongoing on whether tenants opt to remain in their homes or consider moving to a smaller property, as a result of the changes.

The subject has also been extensively covered in tenant newsletters, leaflets and website pieces, as well as direct mailshots.

People still anxious to find out more are urged to call 01254 269000 for Twin Valley queries, and 01282 873700 for Housing Pendle.