Government pledges millions of pounds in free legal support for tenants

The government has announced £20 million in legal support and advice for tenants facing eviction.

The government claim the funding will help those at risk of eviction and debt to “get the help they need before they end up in court”.

Propertymark says long-term reform of the housing justice system is needed to tackle the court backlog.

Vulnerable people can access the support they need

In a government press release, the £20 million in extra funding is aimed at vulnerable households facing eviction to get free legal advice and support “before they end up in court faced with the prospect of a costly legal bill they can’t afford.”

The government add it will also help those with “debt problems get early advice on how to prevent their finances from further spiralling.”

Deputy Prime Minister, David Lammy, said: “It is absolutely vital that those facing some of life’s most challenging situations, such as debt, eviction, family issues, are able to access the support they need.

“This funding will ensure that essential legal support and information is available to those who need it most and will put the sector on a sustainable footing, as part of our Plan for Change.”

Access to justice is a critical part of a well-functioning housing sector

Propertymark welcomes the funding to support vulnerable households, particularly in helping landlords and lenders work constructively to prevent disputes from escalating to court, but warns that more must be done to address the court backlog.

The industry body said on its website: “Propertymark has long argued that access to justice is a critical part of a well-functioning housing sector. Delays, complexity and under-resourcing within the courts system can be damaging for tenants, landlords and agents alike, often prolonging disputes and increasing costs for all parties.

“We have consistently called for reforms that improve efficiency, fairness and confidence in housing justice. This includes ensuring that people facing possession proceedings can access timely legal advice, while also enabling landlords to resolve legitimate cases without excessive delay.”

Propertymark adds: “In our engagement with Parliament, including debates in the House of Lords, we have stressed that a justice system which works well benefits everyone in the housing sector.

“Faster, clearer and more accessible processes help prevent disputes escalating and support better outcomes for tenants and landlords.”

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