Can Mental Health Issues Exempt You from the Bedroom Tax? Find Out Here

Bedroom Tax Exemptions and Mental Health: A Guide to Eligibility and Support

The bedroom tax, officially known as the Spare Room Subsidy, is a policy in the UK that reduces housing benefit for tenants living in social housing if they are deemed to have more bedrooms than they need. However, there are exemptions and ways to challenge the bedroom tax, particularly if you or a family member has a mental health condition that affects your housing needs.

This guide explores how mental health conditions can lead to bedroom tax exemptions, the eligibility criteria, and how you can apply for financial assistance or other forms of housing support.

What Is the Bedroom Tax?

Introduced in 2013, the bedroom tax reduces the housing benefit a tenant receives if they are considered to have more bedrooms than necessary based on the size of their household. The reduction can be:

• 14% of the housing benefit for one extra bedroom
• 25% of the housing benefit for two or more extra bedrooms

The policy applies to tenants in social housing (local authority or housing association properties) who are of working age and claim housing benefit or the housing costs element of Universal Credit.

How Mental Health Conditions Can Qualify for Bedroom Tax Exemptions

Exemptions from the bedroom tax may be available for individuals with mental health conditions if their condition affects their need for additional space. For example, some people may require an additional bedroom for medical reasons, a carer, or a support system that helps them manage their condition.

Here are key situations where mental health can be considered for bedroom tax exemptions:

1. Need for an Extra Bedroom for Carers or Support Workers:

   • If you have a severe mental health condition that requires regular care or supervision, and you need an extra bedroom for a non-resident overnight carer, you may qualify for a bedroom tax exemption.
   • This also applies to tenants who need a separate room for a live-in carer, even if they provide assistance for only part of the day.

2. Disability and Adapted Housing:

   • If the tenant’s home has been adapted to meet their needs due to a mental or physical health condition, and moving to a smaller property would worsen their condition, an exemption may be granted.
   • Some tenants with mental health issues may require additional space for specialist equipment or as a quiet space to manage symptoms. This could also be grounds for exemption.

3. Children with Severe Mental Health Needs:

   • Children with serious mental health conditions may need their own bedroom, even if they would ordinarily be expected to share with a sibling. In such cases, parents or guardians can apply for an exemption on the child’s behalf.

How to Apply for Bedroom Tax Exemption Based on Mental Health

Applying for a bedroom tax exemption due to mental health conditions involves several steps, and you may need to gather supporting evidence to make your case stronger. Here’s how to go about it:

1. Consult with Your Local Council:

   • The first step is to contact your local council and explain your situation. Ask them about applying for an exemption based on health reasons, particularly mental health.
   • Each council may have slightly different procedures, but they will typically require you to fill out forms detailing your condition and explaining how it impacts your housing needs.

2. Provide Medical Evidence:

   • To strengthen your case, you will need to provide evidence from healthcare professionals, such as a doctor, psychiatrist, or mental health specialist. This evidence should explain how your mental health condition affects your ability to live in your current housing and why additional space is necessary.
   • It is important to detail any need for carers or additional bedrooms due to the nature of your condition.

3. Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP):

   • Even if you are not eligible for a formal exemption, you may still qualify for a Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP). These payments are made by local councils to help tenants cover the gap between their housing benefit and rent when the bedroom tax applies.
   • When applying for a DHP, highlight how your mental health condition increases your financial burden and why the extra bedroom is necessary.

4. Challenge the Bedroom Tax Decision:

   • If your request for an exemption is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. You can challenge the bedroom tax by presenting further evidence and legal arguments to demonstrate why the reduction in housing benefit should not apply in your case.

Other Exemptions to the Bedroom Tax

While mental health-related exemptions are a critical focus, other exemptions to the bedroom tax may apply, including:

• Pensioners: If either the tenant or their partner is of state pension age, they are exempt from the bedroom tax.

• Children with disabilities: As mentioned earlier, children who need their own bedroom due to a disability may also qualify for an exemption.

• Shared Custody: Parents with shared custody of children may be allowed an additional bedroom if the children regularly stay with them.

How Fraser Bond Can Assist with Bedroom Tax Exemptions

At Fraser Bond, we understand the complexities of the bedroom tax and how mental health conditions can impact your housing needs. Our property specialists can help you in several ways:

1. Guidance on Exemptions: We can provide advice on whether you may qualify for a bedroom tax exemption based on your mental health condition or other factors.

2. Assistance with Applications: Navigating the exemption process can be challenging, but our experts are here to help you gather the necessary documentation, including medical evidence, and support you through the application process with your local council.

3. Help with Relocating: If you're unable to secure an exemption and need to find more affordable housing, Fraser Bond can assist you in finding a suitable home that meets your needs and budget, whether through social housing or the private rental sector.

4. Discretionary Housing Payment Advice: We can help you apply for a DHP to cover shortfalls in rent due to the bedroom tax, making it easier to stay in your current home.

Conclusion

If you or a family member have a mental health condition that affects your housing needs, you may be eligible for a bedroom tax exemption in the UK. By providing medical evidence and working closely with your local council, you can make a case for why the extra space is essential for managing your condition. In situations where exemptions are not available, Discretionary Housing Payments can provide additional financial support.

For personalised advice and support, contact Fraser Bond. Our team is experienced in handling bedroom tax exemptions and can assist you in securing the right housing solution for your needs.