A SCHEME to help more people meet rent and council tax costs is being introduced.

The new Discretionary Housing Payment scheme, which takes effect on Monday, lays down a broader scope for offering financial help to people in difficulty.

It says that payments should be made in addition to housing benefit and council tax benefits, that each case should be considered on its merits, and that no prescribed tests need to be carried out.

It also states that where a decision is contested, a different officer from the one who took the case should take it up, when asked.

Councillors agreed to implement the scheme at a meeting of Middlesbrough Borough Council's cabinet.

They decided to give the benefits manager the authority to take decisions on whether payments should be made.

They will not be made for water, sewage and environmental services, increases in rent due to outstanding arrears, in cases where sanctions apply or where benefits are suspended.