Brighton and Hove tenants gather for day of advice and debate

The effect of the “bedroom tax” is one of the topics being discussed as tenants from across Brighton and Hove meet at Hove Town Hall today (Saturday 18 May).

Changes to housing benefit and other welfare rules are expected to affect up to 1,000 of the poorest families in the area.

Those deemed to have a spare bedroom will receive less benefit. This has led to a rise in tenants asking for an exchange.

These and other issues are being discussed at the City Assembly, which is held twice a year at Hove Town Hall.

Brighton and Hove City Council chief executive Penny Thompson was one of the speakers along with housing officials and specialist staff who were giving updates to tenants and leaseholders.

Dozens of organisations have stalls at the day-long event, offering advice about subjects such as energy efficiency and debt and money matters.

The event is intended to strengthen tenant participation and most of the tenant reps from across Brighton and Hove are usually among those attending.

The event is open to all tenants and leaseholders. Up to 200 are expected to attend while others watch the proceedings on a webcast.