Last year saw the implementation of the Breathing Space (see our fact sheet), a scheme whereby anyone in debt could apply for a ‘breathing space’ of up to 60 days during which any debts would be frozen to enable them to work out a repayment scheme.  This debt could include any rent arrears.

The Government are now looking to extend that scheme to potentially allow all debts to be combined, and then repaid over a 7-year period.

Whilst this would not stop service of a Section 8 notice for arrears, it would make the pursuing of arrears very difficult.

The Government are now consulting on this proposal, the document can be seen here, it is possible to respond by emailing SDRPresponse@hmtreasury.gov.uk