Discretionary housing payments are for people receiving housing benefit which is less than the amount of rent that’s being charged. A discretionary housing payment can also be claimed by people in receipt of universal credit and who need additional help with housing costs.  These are short term awards and funding for the scheme is limited.  These payments are designed to help people who can show that they are suffering genuine financial hardship and cannot afford to meet the difference between what their landlord charges and the amount of housing benefit or universal credit.  

You can get more information and apply online or by ringing Cornwall Council.