PENDLE residents on housing benefit struggling to pay their rent are being urged to seek help.

They may be eligible for the Government’s Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP) but the deadline for applying is the end of March.

DHPs are designed exclusively to help those on housing benefit who have been affected by the welfare reform changes.

Coun Joe Cooney, leader of Pendle Council, said: “We’re aware some residents who receive benefits have seen reductions in their benefit payments since April, when the welfare reform changes came in.

“We don’t want to see anyone going through extreme financial hardship and being at risk of falling into arrears on their rent.

“So if you’ve been affected and think you might be entitled to this help, apply for it now.

“We need to receive applications by March 31 so it’s important you do this soon.”

To find out if you are eligible for payments or to apply, pick up an application form from any council shops or telephone Pendle Council on 01282 661800.