Private landlords and tenants across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire are being urged to seek further advice if they are having problems with rent payments.

Councils across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire have joined forces to promote the Call B4 You Serve service, as fears grow that there will be an increase in evictions as a consequence of the coronavirus pandemic.

The new impartial service aims to help both landlords and tenants prevent evictions wherever possible.

The service can offer advice on financial support including help with payments towards rent arrears if someone is in danger of becoming homeless.

So far, the scheme has supported more than 300 residents and 250 landlords.

Cllr Tom Hollis, cabinet member for housing at Ashfield District Council, said: “We understand that this coronavirus outbreak has created significant financial problems for many people which has resulted in rent arrears and the threat of eviction from their homes.

“It was just announced last week that the government is extending the eviction ban to 20th September, so we encourage people to get in touch now to discuss their options if they have a tenant in rent arrears or if they have a tenant who has breached their tenancy agreement in another way. 

“Help is available and we are urging landlords to contact Call B4 You Serve or the Council before they serve eviction notices. The feedback that we have had from landlords so far is that the advice and support has been invaluable. We have managed to assist the landlords as well as preventing vulnerable families from becoming homeless.

“One of the Council’s main priorities is to support the most vulnerable residents in Ashfield and prevent rough sleeping and homelessness.”