Why does it take so long to sort housing benefit claims?

Why does it take so long to sort housing benefit claims asks a local resident?

“People are on the verge of eviction and getting court letters for rent arrears when housing benefit are taking too long to sort things out.

“I know a few people who are over a thousand pound and more in rent arrears due to housing benefit taking their time to sort things.

“They are messing with people’s lives and causing severe stress to people.”

Keith Mackenzie, Head of Revenues & Benefits at Rochdale Borough Council said: “We aim to process new Housing Benefit claims in two weeks, although some claims are taking up to four weeks and we’re doing all we can to speed this up. 

“Claims can only be processed once all necessary supporting evidence is provided and some delays are created whilst we wait for this to be provided. 

“Help with rent for people of working-age can also be provided as part of Universal Credit, which is processed and paid by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).”