THOSE facing difficulties with their mortgage are being encouraged to contact Wyre Forest District Council.

Anyone who is in arrears with their mortgage can get free advice from the council’s housing team before court action is taken.

Residents can contact the housing team by email at mortgage.advice@wyreforestdc.gov.uk or call 01562 732990, between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday, or between 10am and 5pm on Wednesday, excluding bank holidays.

Lots of useful information can be found on the council’s mortgage advice webpage, including how to talk to your lender, support for mortgage interest (SMI) and avoiding repossession.

Visit www.wyreforestdc.gov.uk/mortgageadvice to find out more.

Advice can also be found through the new Housing Loss Prevention Advice Service (HLPAS), which was launched by the government on 1 August 2023. The HLPAS allows people who have received a written notice for possession to receive free legal assistance. 

Councillor Ian Hardiman, Wyre Forest District Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for housing, health and wellbeing said: “Households are facing a lot of pressure at the moment, with more people than ever struggling to pay their mortgage due to increased interest rates and the cost of living crisis.

"It’s absolutely vital that people get the advice they need before court action is taken, I urge anyone who is in arrears to contact the council’s housing team and take advantage of the new government HLPAS scheme.”