I’m not sure how the landlord can request temporary absence if there are not in contact with the customer. How do they know the customers intentions? If they were to track the customer down, establish they are on remand and have an intention to return then you would be able to reassess HB and put it back into payment.
I be concerned about what support has been provided though. If they were providing regular support how come they were unaware the tenant had been absent from the property for such a long period? If the provider does come back with info to consider awarding HB under temp absence rules it may be worth reviewing the level of support being provided in the months leading up to the customer going into prison.
