Getting a refusal or a lower award than you expected is stressful, but it is not the end of the road. Housing benefit decisions can be looked at again, and in supported housing they are sometimes wrong first time because the rules are complex.
Read the decision carefully
The council must tell you why they reached their decision. Read it and note anything that looks incorrect, for example if they have the wrong rent, the wrong support details or the wrong dates.
Ask for a mandatory reconsideration
You can ask the council to look at the decision again. This is often called a reconsideration. Put your request in writing, explain what you think is wrong and include any evidence. There is usually a time limit of about one month, so do it quickly.
Gather your evidence
Useful evidence includes your tenancy or licence agreement, a breakdown of your rent and service charges, and a letter from your provider setting out the care, support or supervision they give. Your provider will usually help you put this together.
Appeal if you need to
If the reconsideration does not fix it, you have the right to appeal to an independent tribunal. Free advice services can help you prepare. Keep copies of everything and note every deadline.
Get support
You do not have to face this alone. Your provider and local advice services deal with these challenges all the time. Search verified providers who can help you get your rent covered properly.