NORTH Oxfordshire landlords stand to benefit from a range of council support if they house those currently in emergency accommodation because of coronavirus.

At the end of March, Cherwell District Council worked with local hotels to make sure vulnerable people could access safe and self-contained accommodation during the pandemic.

With moving home now permitted in some circumstances, as set out in Government coronavirus guidelines, the council is calling on landlords of one-bed flats or rooms in shared homes to help people find settled accommodation.

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Those who do will receive a package of support under the Cherwell Bond Scheme and up to £15,000, if needed, to improve the property condition or convert the property to a shared house.

As well as a bond that is double the value landlords would normally receive as a cash deposit, they can also avoid the costs of using a letting agency.

Councillor John Donaldson, Cherwell's lead member for housing, said: “Everyone deserves a safe and secure place to call home, and that is truer than ever during this pandemic.

“In the past two months we have seen a sharp rise in the number of people needing emergency accommodation. With the help of local hotels we have done a good job at putting a roof over their heads.

“We are now planning for their longer-term futures and are ready to offer support and the opportunity to make improvements to properties for any landlords who are able to help us.”

Landlords who are interested in joining the scheme or in finding out more can email bondscheme@cherwell-dc.gov.uk or call 01295 227934.