Introduction
Have you recently had your homeless application denied? Don’t despair; there are steps you can take to secure housing. This guide will help you understand your rights and the actions you can pursue to find a place to live. If you need further assistance, Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts are here to support you in navigating your situation and resolving any legal issues you may face. With Contend, you can access the easiest legal help in the UK.
If you’ve applied for housing assistance due to homelessness and the council has turned you down, don’t lose hope. There are several steps you can take to find a place to live.
Understand the Decision
First things first, if the council denies your application, they are required to provide you with a written explanation of their decision. This document should outline why you don’t qualify for housing assistance. If you don’t receive this information, make sure to ask for it. Along with the decision letter, they should also provide resources to help you find housing on your own.
Challenge the Decision
If you believe the council made a mistake in their decision, you have the right to challenge it. Before you do this, check the criteria for receiving housing assistance from the council to understand your options better.
In some cases, you may qualify for help from social services, especially if you are under 18, have children, or have a disability. To explore these options, reach out to your local council’s social services department. You can find your local council here.
Immediate Help for Unsafe Situations
If you’re facing violence, threats, or abuse and cannot stay in your home, it’s crucial to seek immediate help. You can contact:
- Refuge or
- Women’s Aid at 0808 2000 247 (available 24/7)
- Men’s Advice Line at 0808 801 0327 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm)
These resources are free and can provide you with the support you need.
Finding Urgent Accommodation
If you need a place to stay tonight, consider temporary options such as:
- Staying with friends or family
- Finding a spot in a hostel, night shelter, or refuge
Keep in mind that if you stay in a hostel or shelter, you may still need to pay rent. If you’re on a low income or receiving benefits, you can get assistance with these costs.
For urgent housing help, try Contend’s legal expert chat. Their highly trained AI legal experts will work with you to explore your options and may refer you to emergency housing providers.
Looking for Long-Term Housing
Finding a permanent home can take time, so securing a temporary place to stay is essential. One of the quickest ways to find long-term housing is through private rentals. However, it can be challenging to find affordable options, so consider looking in different areas.
If you’re on a low income or receiving benefits, you can get help with private renting costs. You might also want to apply for a council or housing association home. This route usually offers more affordable housing options, even if your initial homeless application was denied.
When you apply for a council or housing association home, be prepared for a waiting list. The waiting time can vary, so it’s a good idea to check your local council’s waiting list procedures here.
Even if you decide to rent privately, applying for a council or housing association home is worth considering, as it may provide a more secure and affordable living situation.
Additional Resources
You may also explore the possibility of applying for charitable grants to help with your housing situation. For more information, visit Turn2us, which provides resources for charitable grants.
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