ST HELENS Council has introduced a new scheme to encourage landlords to supply accommodation for those on low pay or DSS benefits.

The St Helens Deposit Bond Scheme aims to replace the original deposit on private accommodation, which some people are unable to afford, with a written guarantee provided by the council.

If the tenant breaks the terms of the guarantee, the landlord can then claim any due payments from the bond scheme.

The council's Housing Advice Centre will be hosting a meeting for all private landlords at the Town Hall at 3pm on Thursday, September 4, when the new scheme will be discussed. Guest speakers will include Rebecca Slack from the Bolton Bond Board, who will discuss the benefits of deposit guarantee schemes, and a representative of the North West Landlords Association and will give landlords the chance to meet council officers.

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