How can I keep a roof over my head if I?m made redundant?

THIS is a question often asked by local people seeking advise at Thame’s Citizens Advise Bureau. Here is some general advise from the bureau.

DESPITE improvements in the economy, the risk of redundancy still remains a fear for many people. ?How can I pay the mortgage?? is often the first thought in this situation. Therefore, it is reassuring to learn that measures to help people who lose their jobs hang on to their homes have been introduced.

The rules about help with housing costs for owner-occupiers on benefits have changed. You can get help towards paying the interest on your mortgage ? known as Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI) – if you are on Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, or income-related Employment and Support Allowance. Payment now starts13 weeks after you make your claim and in most cases SMI can be paid for up to two years on loans up to