About to become Homeless?
Applying for help if you're homeless
If you're already homeless, or likely to become homeless within the next 8 weeks you can apply for help getting somewhere to live from your local council. This is known as making a homeless application.
The council will look into your situation to decide what help they might be able to give you. There isn't a set time to get a decision, but there shouldn't be an unreasonably long delay.
Before making an application check if you're entitled to homeless help. If you're not sure, it's still worth applying because the council has to review all applications.
If you’re not a British citizen and you’ve been rough sleeping your right to stay in the UK might be affected. If you’re applying to the EU Settlement Scheme your application cannot be turned down because of rough sleeping.
It’s best to go in person or phone your local council’s housing department as soon as possible, because it can take a long time to be dealt with. Tell them you want to make a homeless application.
They’II arrange for a housing officer to interview you - this will usually be on the same day if you have nowhere to stay that night.
If the council office is closed, check their website - there should be an emergency number you can call.
If you can’t apply for help yourself, for example because you’re ill someone else can apply for you. For example, you could give consent for a family member or support worker to apply on your behalf.
When you speak to the council, you'll need to explain why you're homeless or about to become homeless.
It's worth writing down what you plan to say first. If you need help to do this, contact your nearest Citizens Advice.
You should also try to take:
- proof of your identity, for example your passport or birth certificate
- your tenancy agreement, if you have one
- evidence of why you have to leave your home, for example an eviction notice
- medical information, if you have health problems
You can still apply for help if you don’t have these documents - you’II usually need to give other documents. Ask the council what documents you can give instead.
Advice Centre: We provide free, confidential advice to people with all kinds of housing problems. We tailor our expert advice and support to the individual. From 8am on weekdays.
Prevention: Confidential advice to people with concerned about losing their home.
Hostel and Night Shelter advice: Assistance in finding and obtaining access to Hostels and Winter Night Shelters.
Addiction: Assistance in finding the appropriate services for alcohol and drug dependancies.
Benefits: Offering assistance and advice on the benefits system.
Employment: Offering assistance and advice on finding work.
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