Help If You're Homeless
If you are homeless or worried about becoming homeless, it is important to seek help as soon as possible.
Many people think they must already be sleeping rough before they can get support, but help may be available much earlier. Local councils and support services can often provide advice and assistance if you are at risk of losing your home.
You do not have to face homelessness alone.
What Does Being Homeless Mean?
You may be considered homeless if you:
- Have nowhere to live.
- Are sleeping rough.
- Are staying in temporary accommodation.
- Are staying with friends or family because you have nowhere else to go.
- Cannot safely remain in your current accommodation.
- Have been asked to leave your current accommodation.
You may also be considered homeless if you are at imminent risk of losing your home.
What If I'm At Risk Of Becoming Homeless?
You do not need to wait until you have nowhere to stay before seeking help.
You may be at risk of homelessness if:
- You have received an eviction notice.
- You are being asked to leave by family or friends.
- You cannot afford your rent or mortgage.
- Your current accommodation is no longer suitable.
- You are fleeing domestic abuse or violence.
The earlier you seek support, the more options may be available.
Contact Your Local Council
If you are homeless or threatened with homelessness, your local council may have a duty to help.
The council can:
- Assess your housing situation.
- Provide housing advice.
- Help prevent homelessness.
- Explore housing options.
- Consider temporary accommodation where appropriate.
When contacting the council, it can be helpful to have information about your housing situation and any notices you have received.
What Information Will The Council Need?
The council may ask about:
- Your current living arrangements.
- Why you are homeless or at risk.
- Your household members.
- Your income and benefits.
- Any health conditions or support needs.
- Evidence such as tenancy agreements or eviction notices.
Providing accurate information can help the council assess your situation more effectively.
What Is Temporary Accommodation?
Temporary accommodation is short-term housing that may be offered while a longer-term solution is explored.
This could include:
- Temporary housing.
- Supported accommodation.
- Emergency accommodation.
- Hostel accommodation in some circumstances.
The type of accommodation offered will depend on your circumstances and local availability.
Can I Get Help With Housing Costs?
You may be entitled to support with housing costs through:
- Universal Credit.
- Housing Benefit (for some people).
- Discretionary Housing Payments.
- Local welfare assistance schemes.
A benefits check can help identify the support available to you.
What If I'm Sleeping Rough?
If you are sleeping rough or have nowhere safe to stay:
- Contact your local council immediately.
- Access local homelessness support services.
- Seek advice as soon as possible.
Emergency support may be available depending on your circumstances and local area.
What If I'm Homeless Because Of Rent Arrears?
If rent arrears have contributed to your housing situation:
- Seek debt advice immediately.
- Contact your landlord if possible.
- Check your benefit entitlement.
- Explore housing-related support schemes.
Addressing rent arrears early may help prevent future housing problems.
Support For Specific Circumstances
Additional support may be available if you are:
- A young person.
- A family with children.
- An older person.
- A care leaver.
- Living with a disability or long-term health condition.
- Experiencing domestic abuse.
- Leaving prison or hospital.
The council and support services can consider your individual circumstances when assessing what help may be available.
What Should I Do Right Now?
If you're worried about homelessness:
✅ Seek advice as early as possible
✅ Contact your local council
✅ Keep copies of housing-related documents
✅ Open and respond to letters and notices
✅ Check your benefit entitlement
✅ Explore housing support schemes
✅ Contact your local council
✅ Keep copies of housing-related documents
✅ Open and respond to letters and notices
✅ Check your benefit entitlement
✅ Explore housing support schemes
Taking action early can help improve the options available to you.
Common Myths About Homelessness
"I Have To Be Sleeping Rough To Get Help"
You may be able to receive support before you lose your home.
"The Council Can't Help Me"
Local councils often have duties to provide advice and assistance to people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
"There's Nothing I Can Do If I've Received An Eviction Notice"
Receiving a notice does not always mean you must leave immediately. Advice and support may still be available.
"I'm On My Own"
There are organisations and services that can provide housing, financial and practical support.
Need Help?
Our advisors can help you:
- Understand your housing options.
- Access homelessness support services.
- Check your benefit entitlement.
- Deal with rent arrears and housing debt.
- Explore financial support and emergency assistance.
Contact our team for free, confidential advice and support.