Temporary Accommodation Support
If you have nowhere suitable to live or are at risk of homelessness, your local council may provide temporary accommodation while longer-term housing options are explored.
Temporary accommodation is intended to provide a safe place to stay while your housing situation is assessed and plans are made for more permanent accommodation.
If you have been told you may need temporary accommodation, or are currently living in it, understanding how the process works can help you access the support available.
What Is Temporary Accommodation?
Temporary accommodation is short-term housing provided to people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
It can be used while:
- A homelessness application is being assessed.
- The council investigates your circumstances.
- Permanent accommodation is being arranged.
- Suitable housing options are explored.
Temporary accommodation is not intended to be a long-term housing solution.
Who Can Receive Temporary Accommodation?
The local council will assess your circumstances to determine what support may be available.
You may be considered for temporary accommodation if you:
- Are homeless.
- Are at risk of homelessness.
- Have nowhere safe to stay.
- Cannot remain in your current accommodation.
- Have been asked to leave your accommodation.
Each case is assessed individually.
What Types of Temporary Accommodation Are Available?
Temporary accommodation can include:
Emergency Accommodation
Short-term accommodation that may be provided immediately if you have nowhere safe to stay.
Hostel Accommodation
Shared or supported accommodation may be available in some areas.
Bed and Breakfast Accommodation
In certain circumstances, councils may use bed and breakfast accommodation as a temporary solution.
Temporary Council or Housing Association Property
Some councils may provide self-contained temporary accommodation while longer-term housing is arranged.
Supported Accommodation
This may be available for people who have additional support needs.
The type of accommodation offered will depend on your circumstances and local availability.
What Happens When I Contact the Council?
The council will usually carry out a housing assessment.
They may ask about:
- Your current housing situation.
- Why you are homeless or at risk.
- Your household members.
- Your income and benefits.
- Any health conditions.
- Any support needs.
The council will use this information to determine what duties and support may apply.
Can Families With Children Get Temporary Accommodation?
Families with dependent children may receive additional consideration when the council assesses their housing situation.
The council will consider:
- The needs of children.
- Education arrangements.
- Health and welfare considerations.
- Suitability of accommodation.
The aim is to ensure accommodation is suitable for the household's circumstances.
What If I Have Health Conditions or Disabilities?
When assessing your temporary accommodation needs, the council should take account of:
- Physical disabilities.
- Mental health conditions.
- Medical needs.
- Mobility issues.
- Caring responsibilities.
It is important to provide details of any health conditions or support needs during the assessment process.
Will I Have To Pay For Temporary Accommodation?
In many cases, you may be required to contribute towards the cost of temporary accommodation.
The amount will depend on:
- Your income.
- Benefits you receive.
- The type of accommodation provided.
You may be entitled to help with housing costs through:
- Housing Benefit.
- Universal Credit.
- Other housing-related support.
Seek advice if you are concerned about affordability.
How Long Can I Stay In Temporary Accommodation?
There is no standard timeframe.
The length of stay will depend on:
- Your individual circumstances.
- Availability of suitable housing.
- Local housing demand.
- The progress of your housing application.
Some people remain in temporary accommodation for a short period, while others may stay for longer.
What Are My Responsibilities?
If you are placed in temporary accommodation, you should:
- Pay any required charges.
- Follow the accommodation rules.
- Keep appointments relating to your housing application.
- Inform the council of changes in circumstances.
- Take reasonable care of the property.
Failure to comply with the conditions of the accommodation could affect future housing support.
What If The Accommodation Isn't Suitable?
If you believe your temporary accommodation is not suitable because of:
- Health needs.
- Disability requirements.
- Family circumstances.
- Safety concerns.
You should inform the council as soon as possible and seek advice about your options.
Other Support That May Be Available
While living in temporary accommodation, you may also be entitled to:
- Universal Credit.
- Housing Benefit.
- Council Tax Reduction.
- Household Support Fund.
- Food bank referrals.
- Discretionary Housing Payments.
- Local welfare assistance schemes.
A benefits check can help identify additional support available to you.
Tips If You're In Temporary Accommodation
✅ Stay in regular contact with your housing officer
✅ Keep copies of important documents
✅ Attend appointments when requested
✅ Report changes in circumstances promptly
✅ Check you're receiving all available benefits and support
✅ Seek advice if you're unsure about your housing rights
✅ Keep copies of important documents
✅ Attend appointments when requested
✅ Report changes in circumstances promptly
✅ Check you're receiving all available benefits and support
✅ Seek advice if you're unsure about your housing rights
Common Myths About Temporary Accommodation
"Temporary Accommodation Means I'll Get A Permanent Home Quickly"
Temporary accommodation provides short-term housing while longer-term options are explored.
"I Won't Have To Pay Anything"
You may still be responsible for accommodation charges depending on your circumstances.
"The Council Can't Help Me If I'm Staying With Friends"
You may still be considered homeless or at risk of homelessness even if you are temporarily staying with others.
"There's No Support Available While I'm In Temporary Accommodation"
Additional financial, housing and welfare support may be available.
Need Help?
Our advisors can help you:
- Understand your housing options.
- Navigate the homelessness process.
- Check your benefit entitlement.
- Access emergency financial support.
- Understand your rights in temporary accommodation.
Contact our team for free, confidential advice and support.