A new initiative in Mansfield is aiming to bridge the gap between private landlords and homeless households, offering financial support and extra security to encourage more landlords to open their doors. The Private Rented Access Scheme, backed by over £180,000 from the government’s Homelessness and Prevention Grant, seeks to place those registered as homeless into private rental properties. The council will fund both deposits and first month’s rent for eligible tenants, easing the financial burden that often prevents them from securing a home…

A Safety Net for Landlords

One of the biggest concerns for private landlords when considering tenants with complex housing histories is financial risk. To address this, the council is partnering with RentGuarantor, a private company that provides an insurance-backed guarantee, paid for by tenants. Should a tenant fall into arrears, this service will step in to cover rent and legal costs, providing much-needed reassurance.

In addition, the council has committed to regular welfare checks on tenants placed through the scheme. Officers will contact all participating tenants three times in the first six months to ensure they are managing their tenancy and, crucially, to encourage direct rent payments to landlords.

Who’s in Need?

Currently, 38 households in Mansfield are in temporary accommodation awaiting a permanent home, while a staggering 4,598 people remain on the housing waiting list—173 of whom are in Band One, the highest priority. Demand for social housing and temporary accommodation has surged over the past three years, forcing the council to rely more heavily on costly bed and breakfast placements.

A council spokesperson acknowledged the challenges:

“Private landlords are often unwilling to let to homeless people and families. Many simply can’t afford deposits or first month’s rent, especially as Universal Credit is paid in arrears. The Private Rented Access Scheme allows us to work with landlords to create long-term, successful tenancies.”

A Long-Term Solution?

While the council acknowledges that new social housing is the ultimate answer, the reality is that new homes take years to deliver. This scheme aims to provide an immediate solution, helping a proportion of those in need while reducing pressure on the social housing system.

The council is clear that this scheme won’t be suitable for every homeless applicant, but with proper safeguards and financial backing, it could be an attractive option for landlords willing to engage.

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