WYRE Forest landlords are invited to a free conference to help keep them up to date with the latest changes in legislation and grants available.

The event, which is being organised by Wyre Forest District Council, will also update delegates on benefit changes affecting tenants in the private rented sector.

It will give them information on the council's rent bond scheme which assists people to be able to afford to access the private rented sector. The conference will also highlight how landlords can access certain grants for their properties.

There will be guest speakers from the Department of Works and Pensions, and presentations from the council's housing team.

The event is taking place at Wyre Forest House on Thursday, September 21, from 5pm. There will also be representatives and displays from other housing related organisations.

Councillor Chris Rogers, cabinet member for housing, health and wellbeing, said: "This is a great opportunity to build stronger relationships with landlords in the area.

"We recognise the important contribution they make to housing and we want them to be involved in any schemes we provide.

"The conference will also allow us to keep landlords up to date with the work we are doing to improve the private rented sector."

Anyone wishing to attend can book a place by visiting wyreforestdc.gov.uk/landlordsconference or call Stuart Strathearn, housing projects officer, on 01562 732578.