Overcoming Homelessness in the UK: Social Services Support Guide

Introduction

Are you struggling with homelessness and unsure where to turn for help? This guide outlines the assistance available from social services, particularly for young people, parents, and individuals with health needs. Understanding your rights is crucial, and if you need further support, Contend’s highly trained AI legal experts are here to provide guidance. With Contend, you can easily navigate the complexities of your legal situation and find the help you need in the UK.

If you are experiencing homelessness, social services can offer assistance, especially if you fall into certain categories. Here’s what you need to know about how to get help.

Who Can Get Help?

1. Young People (16-17 years old): If you are between 16 and 17 and don’t have family to stay with, or if you’ve recently been in care, you can reach out to social services for immediate help.

2. Parents: If you are responsible for a child who usually lives with you, you can also ask for assistance.

3. Individuals with Health Needs: If you have a disability, illness, or mental health concerns, social services can evaluate your situation.

Steps for Getting Help

• Under 18? If you’re 16 or 17, you can directly ask social services for assistance. They are required to find you a place to live if they determine you are a “child in need.” This could mean being placed in a foster home or supported housing, with costs covered by social services until you turn 18 or longer if you were previously in care.
• Over 18? If you are 18 or older, you typically need to contact your local council’s housing department first before approaching social services.

Special Considerations for Non-British Citizens

If you are not a British citizen and have been sleeping rough, your immigration status may be affected. However, if you are applying for the EU Settlement Scheme, your application cannot be denied due to homelessness. It’s advisable to consult with an immigration advisor if you have concerns.

What Happens During the Assessment?

When you reach out for help, social services will conduct a ‘needs assessment’ to understand your situation better. This assessment can be done through:

• A form you fill out
• A phone interview
• A face-to-face meeting with a social worker

Make sure to explain your circumstances clearly, especially how being homeless impacts your health and wellbeing.

Help for Families with Children

If you are homeless and have children, social services will assess if your children are in need. They will try to house you together if possible. If your family is not subject to immigration control, you may be offered private rented housing or temporary accommodations like bed and breakfast.

If You Have Health Issues

If you are ill or disabled, social services must evaluate your care needs, which might include assistance with daily activities like cooking or personal care. If your health issues make it hard to maintain a household, make sure to communicate this during your assessment.

What to Do if You Are Denied Help

If social services decide they cannot assist you, they must provide a clear explanation. You can appeal their decision by following your local council’s complaints procedure. If you’re still unsatisfied, you can escalate the issue by complaining to the Local Government Ombudsman.

Seeking Legal Advice

If you believe your case requires legal action, especially if you are a homeless young person and social services refuse to help, try Contend’s legal expert chat for guidance. Their highly trained AI legal experts will work with you to understand your rights and options, and help you determine if you have grounds for legal action.

Conclusion

Navigating homelessness can be overwhelming, but social services are there to help. Whether you are a young person, a parent, or someone with health needs, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. If you encounter any challenges, remember that Contend’s legal expert chat is available to help you understand your rights and options.

For more detailed information and resources, visit Housing Rights or GOV.UK to find out more about care and support needs.

For more info, check out some of our related articles:

• Intentionally Homeless with a Child in the UK: A Guide
• UK Rent Support Guide: Managing Costs, Universal Credit & Legal Aid
• Apply for a Council Home in the UK: Eligibility & Waiting List
• Secure Temporary Housing in the UK: A Guide to Help & Legal Aid
• Facing Homelessness in the UK? Know Your Rights & Get Help Now