DORSET’S biggest private landlord is backing a government-funded scheme that aims to prevent tenants losing their homes.

DWP Housing Partnership, which has around 3,000 tenants, is supporting the Housing Early Prevention Service, set up by Bournemouth and Poole councils.

The scheme sends experienced outreach workers to private tenants who fear they might lose their homes. In more than 50 per cent of cases, the scheme has so far managed to keep people where they are or help them move to another home.

Alan Kenny of DWP, formerly Dave Wells Properties, said: “We are well aware that it is preferable for all parties if people can remain in their homes.

“Clearly it is good for the tenant, but it is good for the landlord to have long-term residents.

“Our own staff always try and help tenants so we were pleased when funding was secured by Bournemouth council and Borough of Poole to further assist those who might be in difficulties.

“The main problem is that tenants don’t seek help early enough and often it is too late to maintain their tenancies.”

Gary Pulman from Borough of Poole, who is the Homelessness Partnerships Coordinator, said: “Bournemouth and Poole is one of 20 areas selected for funding to launch the service.

“It is a free of charge service for anyone aged 18 or over who is living in the private rental sector and is worried that they are at risk of losing their tenancy.

“There is a stereotyped idea about the homeless but many people are just two or three months away from being on the streets if they lose a job or their circumstances change.”

The team can be reached on 01202 633819 or earlyprevention@poole.gov.uk