THE Unemployed Advice Centre has provided help to 97 homeless businesspeople since June last year.

Centre manager Denise said: “When we work hard in our lives, we have a right to be helped and supported.

“Banks, housing providers and the like should work with people because this is their livelihood and it isn’t right that it can be taken away from you because of illness.

“People who become ill should be supported.

“Businesspeople have been coming in to see us. People are struggling so much.

“Someone came into the centre whose husband has had cancer. They do not reduce payments for a small period of time but this would really help people.”

“To get a house from Bolton at Home’s Homes for Bolton service, they need references from a landlord and someone else. Changing from one benefit to another could leave someone homeless."

A Bolton At Home spokesman said: “If someone is homeless and needs accommodation urgently, we urge them to contact Bolton Council for emergency help and temporary accommodation.

“Once registered with Homes for Bolton, anyone can apply for a Bolton at Home property. Our properties are listed on Pinpoint. We can advise people on these steps.

“We have always been committed to rehousing, resettling and supporting people who are homeless.

“We are a partner and guardian of Bolton Young Persons Housing Scheme, we support people to move on from hostel accommodation, and thanks to the Greater Manchester social impact bond we have been able to give a fresh start to 14 local people who had been sleeping rough, providing them with accommodation and support.”

For more information and to discuss your individual circumstances, please phone us on 01204 328000.’

A council spokesman said: “If someone is struggling to pay their council tax and facing financial difficulty, we would urge them to get in touch with us on 01204 331599 .

“Unfortunately sometimes people struggle due to personal circumstances to meet their financial commitments and we can help arrange repayment plans.

“Bailiff action for unpaid council tax is always a last resort after repeated letters and visits.

“We also don’t want to see anyone lose their home and if someone is at threat of losing their home or has debt concerns please contact us on 01204 335900.

“During 2017 to 2018, we helped more than a 1,000 households to stay in their homes who would otherwise have become homeless

“We will provide advice, support and help to prevent people from becoming homeless wherever possible.”