THE number of mortgage holders in Barnsley at risk of losing their homes increased last year, new figures have revealed.
Figures from the Ministry of Justice show 66 mortgage possession claims were made in Barnsley in the year to March - 16 of which led to a property being repossessed by a bailiff.
For comparison, in 2022/23 there were 58 claims, leading to 16 homes being repossessed.
If a claim is successful, the defendant will be ordered to leave the property.
If they do not come to an agreement with the claimant they can be evicted, leading to a repossession.
Mortgage rates remain at high levels since surging in late 2021, albeit with some rates being cut in recent months.
The figures show renters are also suffering, with a six per cent increase in landlord claims over the same period across the country.
In Barnsley, landlords made 273 claims in the year to March, with 99 resulting in a repossession.
This was down from 2022/23, when there were 303.
A charity has warned the cost-of-living crisis and high mortgage costs are putting people in danger of becoming homeless.
Law Society president Nick Emmerson said: “We are concerned about the number of people who are at risk of becoming homeless.
“With the cost-of-living crisis and high interest rates, many are struggling with rent and mortgage payments and are at risk of losing their homes.”
He cautioned legal aid is the only hope for many, but ‘remains out of reach’, with more law firms no longer offering advice.
Step Change is a charity that offers advice and support for those in arrears with their mortgage or rent.
Policy manager Jonathan Chesterman added: “Rent or mortgage payments are priority bills, so if you are in arrears with these payments, they should always be addressed before any consumer credit debt.
“Mortgage lenders have a regulatory responsibility to treat borrowers fairly, offering support and forbearance for people who are in difficulty.”
He said it’s ‘really important’ to let your lender or landlord know as early as possible if you fear you might fall behind on payments.
A Treasury spokesperson said: “Interest rates are high across the developed world as economies work to tackle high inflation and the UK is no different.
“While it is welcome news that we have met the pledge to halve inflation, we know many people are continuing to struggle.
“Anyone struggling with their mortgages should contact their lender, and where relevant, consider the flexibilities in our Mortgage Charter, which can make it easier to manage monthly repayments and gives extra protections against repossessions.”
