Where possible we seek to prevent homelessness. There are a range of things we can do to prevent homelessness which we call our Homelessness Prevention Toolkit.

Within our Toolkit we are able to provide:

Discretionary Housing Benefit Payments - In 2006 we set up a DHP Panel which meets fortnightly to consider applications for additional Housing Benefit for qualifying households at risk of homelessness.

Rent In Advance and Bond Guarantee Schemes - These schemes are delivered by Foundation to help people secure homes in the Private Rented Sector.

Debt Advice - Citizens Advice Bureau provide specialist advice for people to help them manage their debt.

Tenancy Support - For those people at risk of losing their home, Foundation and Housing Options provide housing related support including managing finances.

Homelessness Prevention Fund - This discretionary fund is administered by Housing Options at Yorkshire Housing.  Applications will be considered on behalf of people who are at risk of homelessness for funding which will either prevent homelessness or reduce the cost to the Council of providing temporary accommodation.

Youth Homelessness Prevention - Home Street Home - This scheme has been developed and is delivered by Foundation to provide a comprehensive range of assistance to young people in Craven. The scheme includes an educational programme, tenancy training, a Trainer flat, "Time Out" temporary accommodation for 16/17 year olds and they even have their own website!

Mortgage Rescue - This is a national £200m scheme launched in January 2009 in response to increased mortgage repossessions and the associated increased risk of homelessness.  Craven District Council has worked in partnership at a local level with Housing Options and Craven CAB to deliver this scheme to qualifying households in Craven. 

Court Desk Service - This service is delivered by Key House and provides representation for people required to attend Court due to mortgage and rent arrears.  For further information, please contact Key House based at 130 North Street, Keighley, BD21 3AD, Tel 01535 211311 or via email admin@keyhouse.co.uk

However, we recognise that there are occasions where homelessness cannot be prevented and where people are homeless we have a duty to assist those households.

If you require any further information or you are homeless and require assistance, please contact Housing Options at:
Yorkshire Housing
62 Newmarket Street
Skipton
North Yorkshire
BD23 2JB
Tel: 01756 704500