Leaseholders in Penarth and across Wales affected by fire safety issues could receive financial support from a new Welsh Government launching today (June 27). 

The Leaseholder Support Scheme will open at 10:00 today and provide tailored, independent advice to leaseholders in affected homes. 

All leaseholders eligible for the scheme will receive advice from an independent financial adviser (IFA), with the costs fully covered by the Welsh Government. 

The scheme is currently targeted at leaseholders who are owner-occupiers and those who have become displaced residents, but the Minister confirmed applications would be monitored and eligibility kept under review. 

Julie James, the Climate Change Minister, said: "Today, we are launching the Leaseholder Support Scheme which will help those who need support the most. 

"I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the external partners and sector experts who have assisted us in developing this scheme at pace. 

"Their support and hard work have been critical to establishing the right qualifying criteria and support processes." 

The Minister continued: "Addressing fire safety defects in medium and high-rise buildings must go beyond cladding to make these buildings as safe as they can be. 

"This has been our premise from the outset and, although it makes identifying, addressing and resolving issues significantly more complex, it is the right approach.   

"There are no quick or easy fixes, but we cannot compromise on achieving the right, sustainable solutions.  

"Anything less leaves the door open to the risk of further issues arising and it is important to me that, once these issues are resolved, they remain resolved.   

"We must do this properly, to get it right now and for the future." 

Full guidance on the scheme, including the eligibility criteria, will be published on the Welsh Government website.