Tenants in council housing who have suffered financially during lockdown, or who think they may struggle to pay their rent should contact their housing officers as soon as possible.

Swindon Borough Council has told its tenants that the government ban on any evictions by private or local authority landlords will be lifted in late August.

That means those who are behind with their rent could find themselves evicted.

A newsletter sent by the council says: “Since March, court proceedings to evict tenants in England have been on hold. The government put a stop to landlords starting or continuing eviction proceedings, so tenants were given stability and security during lockdown.”

The newsletter adds: “Housing officers have already supported many tenants to maximise their income. For extra help, officers can also refer you to our dedicated team of tenant money advisors, who are experts in budgeting and claiming benefits, particularly Universal Credit.”