Residents facing repossession or eviction don’t have to fight alone thanks to a landmark service from Basingstoke and Deane borough council.
A new Court Desk Service has been set up at Basingstoke county court for a year-long trial. Individuals attending court can receive help on their case, from advice, help with negotiations and representation in court.
Also available is an advisor from YOU, providing support to homeowners threatened with repossession by their mortgage lender. An advisor will visit the homeowner and talk through their options.
Cabinet member for Housing and Health, Cllr Cathy Osselton, said: “It is important that people are aware that help is out there. As a borough council we are keen to do al that we can to help people remain in their homes and we have demonstrated this by our commitment to the mortgage rescue scheme and by working with YOU to provide support and advice to people at risk of eviction or repossession.
“We recognise that these are financially hard times and people are struggling to keep their heads above water. Many people just don’t know what options are available to them and it is our aim to provide them with the right help and advice to make informed decisions and, ultimately, remain in their homes.”
Gail McMillan, from YOU, said: “Losing a home can have a devastating affect on a family. YOU has been providing homelessness prevention advice for many years and we are really pleased to have launched this service to help families in Basingstoke and Deane.”
The Court Desk Service is based at Basingstoke County Court, third floor, Grosvenor House, Basing View and is open from 10am to 2pm every Monday.
For more information or debt concerns contact housing advisor Mark Fisher on 01256 844844.
