To set up a repayment arrangement for rent arrears with West Lothian Council, you must first engage with your Housing Officer. Here's the general process you would follow:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Initial Contact | Contact your Housing Officer if you are struggling to pay your rent. |
| Advice and Support | You will be referred to the Advice Shop for support and guidance. |
| Identify Issues | Discuss why you have been unable to pay and explore options for affordable repayment arrangements. |
| Payment Plan | If agreed, enter into a manageable payment plan monitored by the Housing Officer. |
| Pre-Action Requirements | If no agreement is made, Pre-Action Requirements will begin when arrears exceed £350. |
| Court Referral | If arrears continue, your case may be referred to the court. You may still enter a plan at this stage. |
| Attend Court | If the case goes to court, it is crucial to attend and discuss repayment options before the court date. |
It's essential to maintain communication throughout this process, as working together can help prevent escalation to legal actions like eviction. If you need immediate assistance, consider reaching out via the Advice Shop for financial advice and support. You can find more resources here.