Discretionary Housing Payment disputes

Coronavirus (COVID-19): change to service

On advice from the government regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19), we are able to offer some extra assistance to those who most need it.

See further information about changes to services.

The DHP scheme is wholly discretionary on the local authority to administer. The council’s officers therefore must decide the cases and circumstances under which extra help can be given. 

There is no formal external appeal mechanism associated to DHPs. However, the council has in place a procedure that allows decisions to be reconsidered where a claimant asks for this service. 

The review of the decision is carried out by other council officers not involved in the original decision.