Introduction
Are you facing homelessness or at risk of losing your home soon? This guide will help you understand your rights and the assistance available to you from your local council. It’s important to know that you don’t have to be on the streets to be considered homeless, and there are various forms of help you can access. If you need further support, Refuge or Women’s Aid on 0808 2000 247 at any time can provide guidance tailored to your situation, ensuring you understand and resolve your legal issues.
If you find yourself homeless or you expect to be without a place to live soon—within the next eight weeks—you can apply for assistance from your local council. It’s important to know that you don’t have to be sleeping on the streets to be considered homeless. If you’re staying with friends or family but it’s not a stable or suitable situation, you can still seek help.
Who Can Apply for Help?
You can apply for homeless assistance if you meet certain criteria, including:
- You have received a valid notice from your landlord to leave your home within the next eight weeks.
- You are in a situation where it would be unreasonable to stay in your current home, such as experiencing violence or abuse.
If you are not a British citizen, be aware that applying for homeless help could impact your immigration status. It’s best to speak with an advisor before applying, especially if you have concerns about your legal rights in the UK.
Special Considerations for Young People
If you are 16 or 17 years old, it’s usually better to reach out to social services instead of the council. They tend to provide more support for young people, especially if you’ve recently been in care.
What Kind of Help Can You Get?
The type of assistance you receive will depend on your unique situation. Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect:
- Emergency Housing: If you are legally homeless and in immediate need, the council may provide short-term emergency accommodation such as a bed and breakfast or hostel.
- Longer-Term Housing: If you qualify, the council may help you find a more permanent place to live, such as a council flat or housing association property.
- Housing Plan: The council is required to work with you to create a written housing plan that outlines how they will assist you in finding a new home or staying in your current one.
Priority Need
You may be considered in “priority need” if you:
- Have children living with you.
- Are pregnant.
- Are fleeing domestic abuse.
- Are 16 or 17 years old without family support.
- Have a disability or medical condition that makes you vulnerable.
If you don’t meet these criteria, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local council anyway. They might still be able to help. You can find your local council’s contact details on GOV.UK.
Immigration Status Matters
If you are from Ukraine, Afghanistan, Sudan, or certain regions in the Middle East, you may have specific rights that allow you to apply for homeless assistance. Here’s a quick overview:
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From Ukraine: You can apply if you left Ukraine due to the invasion and your immigration documents do not restrict access to public funds.
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From Afghanistan: You can apply if you were brought to the UK through specific government schemes and your immigration status allows it.
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From Sudan or the Middle East: Similar rules apply if you left due to violence and your immigration documents permit you to access public funds.
Next Steps
Before you apply for help, it’s wise to consult with an advisor or a local organization that specializes in housing issues. Instead of Citizens Advice, consider trying Contend’s legal expert chat. If you need immediate assistance or have nowhere safe to stay, you can contact:
- Refuge or Women’s Aid: 0808 2000 247 (24/7 support)
- Men’s Advice Line: 0808 801 0327 (Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm)
These calls are free and confidential.
Conclusion
Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you’re facing homelessness. The council has a responsibility to assist you, but understanding your rights and the process can make a significant difference in your situation. Whether you’re in a crisis or just planning for the future, there are resources available to support you.
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