EXTRA support for landlords is available from Stroud District Council so that tenants threatened with homelessness can get a more secure roof over their heads.

Landlords who sign up to the new free-of-charge Tenancy Support Package will receive a month’s rent in advance and cash deposit paid by the council.

And a member of the housing advice team will carry out regular tenancy checks, and property inspections if requested.

One residential landlord whose tenant was arranged by SDC said: “The scheme works so well because it provides support to the landlord as well as the tenant.”

Cllr Chas Townley, chairman of Stroud District Council’s Housing Committee said: “There is a severe and growing shortage of council and housing association homes in the district with 3,663 households registered on the council’s waiting list for housing.

"After four years of Housing Benefits being frozen by Government, the supply of private tenancies available to people in housing need is severely limited.

"I’m delighted that our housing advice team is able to offer these extra incentives to encourage the private landlords to help housing tenants in need.”

Landlords in the district can find out more about the new Tenancy Support Package and hear a guest speaker from the Mydeposits scheme at a landlord forum event at Forest Green Rovers on Wednesday, October 2.

The extra support has become available after the council received a share of a county-wide fund of £363,408 to help residential landlords secure tenants.

“We helped 52 households find private rented accommodation last year, with a 90 per cent success rate,” said Phil Bishop, the council’s housing advice manager.

“We offer a high level of support for both landlords and tenants, and the new funding means that we are able to offer even more benefits.”

The event will take place at Forest Green Rovers, Nailsworth on Wednesday, October 2 from 10am until 12pm.

Brunch will be provided.

To reserve a place please email homelessness.prevention@stroud.gov.uk or call 01453 754078.