The Tayside Housing Law and Debt Advice project is funded by the Scottish Legal Aid Board with the objective of preventing individuals and families from losing their homes as a result of money problems and debt.

Aims of the project

• To prevent eviction or repossession.
• To explore all options with clients, in order to prevent unnecessary bankruptcies.
• To maximise clients' incomes, enabling them to manage their finances more effectively.
• To reduce debt levels and regular financial commitments by negotiating with creditors on behalf of clients.
• To enable people to enable people to remain in their homes and achieve long-term financial stability, thereby reducing adverse impacts on health, confidence and well-being.

How the project works

The Tayside Housing Law and Debt Advice project is funded by the Scottish Legal Aid Board, and operates on the basis of self referrals from clients directly, referrals from advisers working within Shelter's other advice areas, from solicitors, local authorities, and other advice organisations within the Tayside Sheriffdom. The Tayside Sheriffdom includes the Dundee, Angus, Perth & Kinross, Falkirk, Stirling and Clackmannanshire council areas.

The money advisers work to prevent individuals and families from losing their homes as a result of money problems and debt. They will do this by negotiating with creditors, looking at clients' income and expenditures, establishing ways in which income can be maximised, help with budgeting and establishing entitlement to and assisting with applications for welfare benefits such as; income support, Jobseekers Allowance, Housing Benefit, Tax Credits and, Disability Living Allowance. They can also provide assistance with accessing Social Fund payments, the mortgage to rent and other homeowner support schemes.

For those facing court actions as a result of money and debt problems, our legal team is available to provide court representation and legal advice when required.

How to access help or advice

The Tayside Housing Law and Debt Advice Project offers both face to face and telephone appointments.  Outreach surgeries can also be arranged at locations within the Tayside Sheriffdom.

If you are experiencing financial difficulties, and are worried about losing your home, you can arrange an appointment to speak to an adviser, or to request more information on 0344 515 2527 or email tayside@shelter.org.uk.

If you are working for an agency or organisation, and would like to make a referral, please complete the referral form  and return it by email to: tayside@shelter.org.uk or by fax to: 0844 515 2902.