Most leaving care support ends at the age of 25. After this age, housing advice and support is usually accessed through universal services, such as your local district or borough council, housing providers, homelessness services, benefits services and other specialist advice organisations.
Where can I get help with housing?
Having a safe and stable home is important for your wellbeing, independence and quality of life. Whether you rent privately, live in social housing, share accommodation, or own your own home, it is important to understand your housing rights and responsibilities and know where to go for support if you need it.
Most statutory support for qualifying care leavers ends at the age of 21. After this age, housing support is usually provided through universal services such as local housing authorities, housing providers, benefits services and specialist advice organisations.
This section provides information about renting a home, managing a tenancy, preventing homelessness and accessing housing-related support. If you experience difficulties with your accommodation, seek advice as early as possible. Early support can often prevent problems from escalating and help you access the right information, advice and services for your situation.
Most leaving care support ends at the age of 25. After this age, housing advice and support is usually accessed through universal services, such as your local district or borough council, housing providers, homelessness services, benefits services and other specialist advice organisations.
Different district and borough councils allocate housing in their local area differently. Visit your district or borough council's housing information:
- Current Borough Councils:
- Current District Councils:
Your local housing team can help you:
- Understand your housing options
- Make a housing plan with you
- Agree what steps you and they will take together
This plan might also include:
- Getting into work or training
- Building skills for independence
You won’t be expected to figure this out on your own.
Different district and borough councils allocate housing in their local area differently. Visit your district or borough council's housing information:
- Current Borough Councils:
- Current District Councils:
Your local housing team can help you:
- Understand your housing options
- Make a housing plan with you
- Agree what steps you and they will take together
This plan might also include:
- Getting into work or training
- Building skills for independence
You won’t be expected to figure this out on your own.
Council tax is a bill that helps pay for local services in the area where you live, such as rubbish collection, libraries, parks, social care, and other council services.
If you rent or own a home and are aged 18 or over, you may need to pay council tax. The amount depends on where you live, who lives with you, and whether you qualify for any discounts or support.
Many local councils offer council tax discounts, reductions or exemptions for care leavers up to their 25th birthday. The level of support available varies depending on where you live and your individual circumstances. Some councils provide a full reduction, while others offer partial discounts or apply different rules depending on who you live with.
If you think you may be eligible, speak to your local or district or borough council's council tax team.
|
Council Area |
Further Information |
|
|
Basingstoke and Deane |
||
|
East Hampshire |
||
|
Eastleigh |
||
|
Fareham |
||
|
Hart |
||
|
Havant |
Contact Havant Borough Council for current scheme details. |
|
|
New Forest |
||
|
Rushmoor |
||
|
Test Valley |
||
|
Winchester |
||
|
Portsmouth |
||
|
Southampton |
If you're unsure what support is available where you live, speak to your Personal Adviser, who can help you check your eligibility and make an application.
Council tax is a bill that helps pay for local services in the area where you live, such as rubbish collection, libraries, parks, social care, and other council services.
If you rent or own a home and are aged 18 or over, you may need to pay council tax. The amount depends on where you live, who lives with you, and whether you qualify for any discounts or support.
Many local councils offer council tax discounts, reductions or exemptions for care leavers up to their 25th birthday. The level of support available varies depending on where you live and your individual circumstances. Some councils provide a full reduction, while others offer partial discounts or apply different rules depending on who you live with.
If you think you may be eligible, speak to your local or district or borough council's council tax team.
|
Council Area |
Further Information |
|
|
Basingstoke and Deane |
||
|
East Hampshire |
||
|
Eastleigh |
||
|
Fareham |
||
|
Hart |
||
|
Havant |
Contact Havant Borough Council for current scheme details. |
|
|
New Forest |
||
|
Rushmoor |
||
|
Test Valley |
||
|
Winchester |
||
|
Portsmouth |
||
|
Southampton |
If you're unsure what support is available where you live, speak to your Personal Adviser, who can help you check your eligibility and make an application.
In Hampshire you start the process off by registering with Hampshire Home Choice. You may need help to do this so reach out to your PA or social worker if you need to.
In Hampshire you start the process off by registering with Hampshire Home Choice. You may need help to do this so reach out to your PA or social worker if you need to.
Some online places to look for homes to rent privately are:
Some district or borough councils offer help with deposits.
You may be able to get help with the cost of renting privately.
Some online places to look for homes to rent privately are:
Some district or borough councils offer help with deposits.
You may be able to get help with the cost of renting privately.
Some landlords and letting agents may ask you to provide a guarantor before offering a tenancy. A guarantor is someone who agrees to cover rent or other costs if you cannot pay.
If you do not have a family member or other suitable person who can act as a guarantor, there are professional guarantor services available. These services usually charge a fee, so it is important to check the costs and terms before applying.
You may wish to explore:
- Become: Help with finding a rent guarantor - information for care-experienced young people, including links to guarantor providers.
- RentGuarantor - a professional guarantor service that supports students and other renters who need a guarantor.
- Goodlord Guarantor - a professional guarantor service available to tenants who do not have a suitable guarantor.
Important: Hampshire County Council does not recommend or endorse any particular guarantor service. You should check eligibility, fees, terms and conditions before using any provider.
Some landlords and letting agents may ask you to provide a guarantor before offering a tenancy. A guarantor is someone who agrees to cover rent or other costs if you cannot pay.
If you do not have a family member or other suitable person who can act as a guarantor, there are professional guarantor services available. These services usually charge a fee, so it is important to check the costs and terms before applying.
You may wish to explore:
- Become: Help with finding a rent guarantor - information for care-experienced young people, including links to guarantor providers.
- RentGuarantor - a professional guarantor service that supports students and other renters who need a guarantor.
- Goodlord Guarantor - a professional guarantor service available to tenants who do not have a suitable guarantor.
Important: Hampshire County Council does not recommend or endorse any particular guarantor service. You should check eligibility, fees, terms and conditions before using any provider.
Most private rented properties require a security deposit before you move in. If you are struggling to afford a deposit, some landlords and letting agents may offer deposit alternative schemes.
These schemes do not always remove your responsibility for costs at the end of a tenancy, so it is important to understand the terms and conditions before signing up.
You may wish to explore:
- Reposit - a deposit alternative scheme where tenants typically pay an upfront fee instead of a traditional cash deposit. Reposit states that it is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
- Zero Deposit - a deposit replacement scheme that allows eligible tenants to move into a property without paying a traditional five-week deposit. The scheme involves a lower upfront payment and ongoing fees. Zero Deposit states that it is FCA regulated.
Important: Hampshire County Council does not recommend or endorse any particular provider. Deposit replacement schemes are not always cheaper than a traditional deposit and you may still be liable for rent arrears, damage, cleaning costs or other charges at the end of your tenancy. Check all fees, eligibility criteria and terms carefully before applying.
Most private rented properties require a security deposit before you move in. If you are struggling to afford a deposit, some landlords and letting agents may offer deposit alternative schemes.
These schemes do not always remove your responsibility for costs at the end of a tenancy, so it is important to understand the terms and conditions before signing up.
You may wish to explore:
- Reposit - a deposit alternative scheme where tenants typically pay an upfront fee instead of a traditional cash deposit. Reposit states that it is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
- Zero Deposit - a deposit replacement scheme that allows eligible tenants to move into a property without paying a traditional five-week deposit. The scheme involves a lower upfront payment and ongoing fees. Zero Deposit states that it is FCA regulated.
Important: Hampshire County Council does not recommend or endorse any particular provider. Deposit replacement schemes are not always cheaper than a traditional deposit and you may still be liable for rent arrears, damage, cleaning costs or other charges at the end of your tenancy. Check all fees, eligibility criteria and terms carefully before applying.
Living independently comes with lots of new responsibilities, and there can be a lot to think about when moving into a new home. This practical checklist can help you stay organised before, during and after your move. It includes useful reminders about setting up your home, managing bills, updating your details with services, staying safe, and looking after your tenancy.
Whether this is your first home or you're moving to a new property, this resource can help you feel more confident and prepared. Keep it handy as a guide and use it to make sure you don't miss any important steps along the way.
You may also find the checklist useful if you're preparing to move in the future and want to understand some of the things you'll need to think about when living independently.
Living independently comes with lots of new responsibilities, and there can be a lot to think about when moving into a new home. This practical checklist can help you stay organised before, during and after your move. It includes useful reminders about setting up your home, managing bills, updating your details with services, staying safe, and looking after your tenancy.
Whether this is your first home or you're moving to a new property, this resource can help you feel more confident and prepared. Keep it handy as a guide and use it to make sure you don't miss any important steps along the way.
You may also find the checklist useful if you're preparing to move in the future and want to understand some of the things you'll need to think about when living independently.
Moving into your own home can feel exciting, but it can also be a big step. Centrepoint provides support to help young people develop the skills and confidence needed to live independently.
The support available includes:
- learning practical skills such as managing a budget and paying household bills
- help to find suitable accommodation
- access to a rent deposit guarantee scheme
- support during the transition to independent living.
Centrepoint's aim is to help young people build confidence, improve their wellbeing and successfully move into long-term independent accommodation. They also continue to provide support after a young person has moved into their new home.
Find out more: Centrepoint - Moving On
Moving into your own home can feel exciting, but it can also be a big step. Centrepoint provides support to help young people develop the skills and confidence needed to live independently.
The support available includes:
- learning practical skills such as managing a budget and paying household bills
- help to find suitable accommodation
- access to a rent deposit guarantee scheme
- support during the transition to independent living.
Centrepoint's aim is to help young people build confidence, improve their wellbeing and successfully move into long-term independent accommodation. They also continue to provide support after a young person has moved into their new home.
Find out more: Centrepoint - Moving On
You have the right to feel safe in your home. Living independently can be exciting, but it is important to know how to keep yourself, your belongings and your personal information safe.
You have the right to feel safe in your home. Living independently can be exciting, but it is important to know how to keep yourself, your belongings and your personal information safe.
Your tenancy agreement is an important legal document. It sets out your rights and responsibilities, as well as your landlord's responsibilities.
Before signing a tenancy agreement, make sure you understand what you are agreeing to. If you are unsure about anything, speak to your Personal Adviser (PA) or another trusted adult before signing.
Things to check before you sign
Make sure you know:
- How much rent you need to pay and when it is due.
- What bills you are responsible for paying, such as council tax, gas, electricity, water or internet.
- How repairs are reported and who is responsible for them.
- Whether there are any rules about visitors, pets or smoking.
- How much notice you need to give if you want to move out.
Top tips before renting
- ✔️ Talk to your PA before signing anything
- ✔️ Make sure you understand the agreement
- ✔️ Think about your budget (can you afford the rent each month?)
- ✔️ Ask for help if you are unsure
Keep a copy of your tenancy agreement somewhere safe. You may need it when applying for benefits, proving your address or resolving any problems with your landlord.
The Renter's Rights Act Explained by the Citizen's Advice
If you rent from a private landlord in England, you will usually have an assured periodic tenancy. This means:
- Your tenancy does not have a fixed end date and continues until you decide to leave or the landlord has a legal reason to end the tenancy.
- Your landlord cannot evict you without following the correct legal process.
- Your landlord must keep the property safe and carry out certain repairs.
- You have the right to live in the property without unnecessary interference from your landlord.
Your responsibilities
As a tenant, you are expected to:
- Pay your rent on time.
- Pay any bills that are your responsibility.
- Look after the property and report repairs when needed.
- Be considerate to neighbours.
- Follow the terms of your tenancy agreement.
If you are struggling to pay your rent or bills, get help straight away. Speaking to your landlord, PA or support worker early can often prevent small problems becoming bigger ones.
Your tenancy agreement is an important legal document. It sets out your rights and responsibilities, as well as your landlord's responsibilities.
Before signing a tenancy agreement, make sure you understand what you are agreeing to. If you are unsure about anything, speak to your Personal Adviser (PA) or another trusted adult before signing.
Things to check before you sign
Make sure you know:
- How much rent you need to pay and when it is due.
- What bills you are responsible for paying, such as council tax, gas, electricity, water or internet.
- How repairs are reported and who is responsible for them.
- Whether there are any rules about visitors, pets or smoking.
- How much notice you need to give if you want to move out.
Top tips before renting
- ✔️ Talk to your PA before signing anything
- ✔️ Make sure you understand the agreement
- ✔️ Think about your budget (can you afford the rent each month?)
- ✔️ Ask for help if you are unsure
Keep a copy of your tenancy agreement somewhere safe. You may need it when applying for benefits, proving your address or resolving any problems with your landlord.
The Renter's Rights Act Explained by the Citizen's Advice
If you rent from a private landlord in England, you will usually have an assured periodic tenancy. This means:
- Your tenancy does not have a fixed end date and continues until you decide to leave or the landlord has a legal reason to end the tenancy.
- Your landlord cannot evict you without following the correct legal process.
- Your landlord must keep the property safe and carry out certain repairs.
- You have the right to live in the property without unnecessary interference from your landlord.
Your responsibilities
As a tenant, you are expected to:
- Pay your rent on time.
- Pay any bills that are your responsibility.
- Look after the property and report repairs when needed.
- Be considerate to neighbours.
- Follow the terms of your tenancy agreement.
If you are struggling to pay your rent or bills, get help straight away. Speaking to your landlord, PA or support worker early can often prevent small problems becoming bigger ones.
When you move into a property, you will usually need to set up accounts for services such as:
- Gas
- Electricity
- Broadband and phone services
You can often choose which energy supplier you use. It is worth comparing prices and tariffs to find the best option for your budget.
The three largest organisations that help people compare energy prices are:
- Uswitch - Compare Energy
- Compare the Market - Compare Gas & Electricity Suppliers
- Confused.com - Energy Comparison
Make sure you:
- Read and record the gas and electricity meter readings when you move in.
- Set up your accounts as soon as possible.
- Keep copies of important documents and bills.
- Contact your supplier if you are struggling to pay your bills, as support may be available.
When you move into a property, you will usually need to set up accounts for services such as:
- Gas
- Electricity
- Broadband and phone services
You can often choose which energy supplier you use. It is worth comparing prices and tariffs to find the best option for your budget.
The three largest organisations that help people compare energy prices are:
- Uswitch - Compare Energy
- Compare the Market - Compare Gas & Electricity Suppliers
- Confused.com - Energy Comparison
Make sure you:
- Read and record the gas and electricity meter readings when you move in.
- Set up your accounts as soon as possible.
- Keep copies of important documents and bills.
- Contact your supplier if you are struggling to pay your bills, as support may be available.
Shopping for appliances
Buying your next home appliance second hand is a great way to save money and reduce the amount of usable appliances going to landfill. You can reduce packaging going to waste as new appliances come with a bin-full of packaging materials and not all of them are recyclable. But how do you ensure you’re buying good quality second hand appliances? We’ve got some top tips to help you.
If you are buying from an individual then make sure to see the item before you pay and fully test that it works before you take it home with you.
Having the model or serial number of the appliance so you can get spare parts if you need to and to download the manual for appliances off the internet in case you need to.
Don’t be put off by dirt or cosmetic marks and damage as this isn’t detrimental to how well the appliance will work.
Where possible see if you can test that the appliance works e.g. a kettle or microwave can be plugged in and you can check the settings. This isn’t possible with every appliance and in particular larger appliances, so if buying from a shop or organisation, check with their guarantee or returns policy.
Ensure that the wires are intact, no fraying or damage to them. This is because frayed wires can cause fires or give you an electric shock.
Where to find second hand bargains
Some brands that sell refurbished appliances include Dualit, Ninja, and Vitamix. And you can sometimes find kitchenware and cookware on Ikea re-shop and re-use.
As well as physical shops, some charity shops have dedicated online selling platforms, such as ebay shops. Second hand appliances in charity shops, or sold via their online platforms have to be PAT tested before being sold, so you have the peace of mind of knowing that the item you’re buying is safe.
But unlike professionally refurbished appliances, appliances sold by charity shops are pretty much sold in the condition in which they were donated, and don’t come with a warranty. The plus side is that they’re often very cheap, the downside is that there could be missing parts or the appliance may no longer be performing as originally intended.
Reuse Network - is a national network of reuse centres who stock high-quality, affordable household items. Many centres will still charge for items but at a significantly cheaper rate than retail. People on benefits get a discount of 30% on items they buy.
Online marketplaces
Websites like ebay, Gumtree, Facebook marketplace and Vinted, are all excellent places to source good quality second hand appliances. Many people sell high quality appliances for reasons such as moving house, or unwanted gifts, so there are bargains to be had.
Always follow the safety rules set out by the website to ensure you stay protected. If possible, meet the seller in person and inspect the item before handing over any cash. If the item is being posted, paying through sites such as PayPal can offer additional protection.
Grants
There are a number of charities which give grants to young people who are struggling financially. Search for grants.
Shopping for appliances
Buying your next home appliance second hand is a great way to save money and reduce the amount of usable appliances going to landfill. You can reduce packaging going to waste as new appliances come with a bin-full of packaging materials and not all of them are recyclable. But how do you ensure you’re buying good quality second hand appliances? We’ve got some top tips to help you.
If you are buying from an individual then make sure to see the item before you pay and fully test that it works before you take it home with you.
Having the model or serial number of the appliance so you can get spare parts if you need to and to download the manual for appliances off the internet in case you need to.
Don’t be put off by dirt or cosmetic marks and damage as this isn’t detrimental to how well the appliance will work.
Where possible see if you can test that the appliance works e.g. a kettle or microwave can be plugged in and you can check the settings. This isn’t possible with every appliance and in particular larger appliances, so if buying from a shop or organisation, check with their guarantee or returns policy.
Ensure that the wires are intact, no fraying or damage to them. This is because frayed wires can cause fires or give you an electric shock.
Where to find second hand bargains
Some brands that sell refurbished appliances include Dualit, Ninja, and Vitamix. And you can sometimes find kitchenware and cookware on Ikea re-shop and re-use.
As well as physical shops, some charity shops have dedicated online selling platforms, such as ebay shops. Second hand appliances in charity shops, or sold via their online platforms have to be PAT tested before being sold, so you have the peace of mind of knowing that the item you’re buying is safe.
But unlike professionally refurbished appliances, appliances sold by charity shops are pretty much sold in the condition in which they were donated, and don’t come with a warranty. The plus side is that they’re often very cheap, the downside is that there could be missing parts or the appliance may no longer be performing as originally intended.
Reuse Network - is a national network of reuse centres who stock high-quality, affordable household items. Many centres will still charge for items but at a significantly cheaper rate than retail. People on benefits get a discount of 30% on items they buy.
Online marketplaces
Websites like ebay, Gumtree, Facebook marketplace and Vinted, are all excellent places to source good quality second hand appliances. Many people sell high quality appliances for reasons such as moving house, or unwanted gifts, so there are bargains to be had.
Always follow the safety rules set out by the website to ensure you stay protected. If possible, meet the seller in person and inspect the item before handing over any cash. If the item is being posted, paying through sites such as PayPal can offer additional protection.
Grants
There are a number of charities which give grants to young people who are struggling financially. Search for grants.
Landlords, especially if they are a social landlord, (housing associations and council housing providers), often have small grants that tenants can apply for. These include Vivid, Sovereign Housing, Clarion Housing and Aster.
Speak to your housing association for more information.
Use the internet to search for reuse organisations that may sell second hand furniture and appliances.
Here are some websites or organisations you could try:
Gumtree - for second hand furniture and appliances for sale.
Emmaus Hampshire is a social enterprise which helps people out of homelessness. They have a large furniture shop in Eastleigh.
The Community Furniture Project in Basingstoke sells a wide range of used furniture.
The Furniture Helpline in Alton provides affordable household goods, household furniture and white-goods at very low prices to those with a need.
Jacob's Well Care Centre aims to provide furniture to those in need in the Gosport area.
Search the Community Directory to find organisations that can help with furniture.
Charity shops, such as the British Heart Foundation, are also a good place to start if you want to buy second hand goods for the home at affordable prices.
Furnish to Flourish provides basic furniture and household items to individuals and families who are suffering poverty and disadvantage who live in Hampshire.
To access this ask any agency helping you to contact Scratch to refer you.
Furnish to Flourish can offer a Basic Package of furniture including:
- Three Piece Suite (or similar seating)
- Beds (as many as are needed, including Doubles, Singles, Cots (when available))
- Bedding
- Curtains
- Kitchen Box (crockery, cutlery, pots & pans etc.)
- Kettle
- Toaster
- Wardrobe
- Chest of Drawers
- Bedside Cabinets
- Table & Chairs
- Coffee Table
- T.V. Cabinets
You will need to pay some money towards this but you get enough furniture to furnish you entire home and it is delivered to you.
They are also able to help with single items of furniture - please contact the SCRATCH office for further information and current prices for single pieces.
Some household waste recycling centres have sections where you can buy second hand furniture.
Low cost credit
Smarter Buys
Smarter Buys works in partnership with a number of social landlords to offer tenants a responsible, affordable finance alternative to high-cost high street stores.
If you aren’t a tenant of one of the participating social landlords, you can still purchase essential furniture items from the store but may need a debit or credit card to do so.
Credit Unions
A good place to start is your local Credit Union. A Credit Union is a financial co-operative which provides savings, loans and a range of services to its members. It is owned and controlled by the members so it’s aim is to provide the best service to members rather than profits for
shareholders.
They can provide loans at low interest rates to members and they encourage members to save with them which is a great way to start building up a credit rating.
Fair for You
Fair for You is an alternative to high cost weekly payment stores and offers
flexible affordable loans to people on low incomes. It allows families to buy goods direct from their suppliers, with flexible affordable repayment schedules.
As well as helping people access essential items affordably, it also serves to improve their credit rating, making it much easier for them to access mainstream credit in future.
You pay what you can afford, when you can afford it and the faster you pay it off, the less you pay.
Landlords, especially if they are a social landlord, (housing associations and council housing providers), often have small grants that tenants can apply for. These include Vivid, Sovereign Housing, Clarion Housing and Aster.
Speak to your housing association for more information.
Use the internet to search for reuse organisations that may sell second hand furniture and appliances.
Here are some websites or organisations you could try:
Gumtree - for second hand furniture and appliances for sale.
Emmaus Hampshire is a social enterprise which helps people out of homelessness. They have a large furniture shop in Eastleigh.
The Community Furniture Project in Basingstoke sells a wide range of used furniture.
The Furniture Helpline in Alton provides affordable household goods, household furniture and white-goods at very low prices to those with a need.
Jacob's Well Care Centre aims to provide furniture to those in need in the Gosport area.
Search the Community Directory to find organisations that can help with furniture.
Charity shops, such as the British Heart Foundation, are also a good place to start if you want to buy second hand goods for the home at affordable prices.
Furnish to Flourish provides basic furniture and household items to individuals and families who are suffering poverty and disadvantage who live in Hampshire.
To access this ask any agency helping you to contact Scratch to refer you.
Furnish to Flourish can offer a Basic Package of furniture including:
- Three Piece Suite (or similar seating)
- Beds (as many as are needed, including Doubles, Singles, Cots (when available))
- Bedding
- Curtains
- Kitchen Box (crockery, cutlery, pots & pans etc.)
- Kettle
- Toaster
- Wardrobe
- Chest of Drawers
- Bedside Cabinets
- Table & Chairs
- Coffee Table
- T.V. Cabinets
You will need to pay some money towards this but you get enough furniture to furnish you entire home and it is delivered to you.
They are also able to help with single items of furniture - please contact the SCRATCH office for further information and current prices for single pieces.
Some household waste recycling centres have sections where you can buy second hand furniture.
Low cost credit
Smarter Buys
Smarter Buys works in partnership with a number of social landlords to offer tenants a responsible, affordable finance alternative to high-cost high street stores.
If you aren’t a tenant of one of the participating social landlords, you can still purchase essential furniture items from the store but may need a debit or credit card to do so.
Credit Unions
A good place to start is your local Credit Union. A Credit Union is a financial co-operative which provides savings, loans and a range of services to its members. It is owned and controlled by the members so it’s aim is to provide the best service to members rather than profits for
shareholders.
They can provide loans at low interest rates to members and they encourage members to save with them which is a great way to start building up a credit rating.
Fair for You
Fair for You is an alternative to high cost weekly payment stores and offers
flexible affordable loans to people on low incomes. It allows families to buy goods direct from their suppliers, with flexible affordable repayment schedules.
As well as helping people access essential items affordably, it also serves to improve their credit rating, making it much easier for them to access mainstream credit in future.
You pay what you can afford, when you can afford it and the faster you pay it off, the less you pay.
If you're homeless or threatened with homelessness
It’s usually worth applying to your local council for help if you're homeless - or if you’ll be homeless soon.
Depending on your situation, the council might:
-
find somewhere for you to stay short term
-
help you stay where you’re currently living - for example by talking to your landlord
-
find somewhere for you to live long term - this might be council housing or renting from a private landlord
Check if you can apply for homeless help from the council.
If you're homeless and the council won't house you
You’ll need to consider finding a temporary place to stay if you don’t have anywhere you can stay tonight.
It’s worth asking friends or family members if you can stay with them while you find somewhere.
If you’ve slept outside overnight or you’re planning to sleep outside tonight
You can get help from Streetlink. They’ll help you get help from your local council or charities. You’ll need to tell Streetlink where you’re sleeping on their website. They’ll find you and help you find somewhere to stay. You might be able to get a place to stay in a hostel, night shelter, refuge or bed and breakfast. You can ask your local council for contact details of places to stay.
If the council have decided they won’t help you and you think they might be wrong, check if you can challenge the council’s homeless decision.
You can also contact Shelter:
- Shelter helpline: 0808 800 4444
💬 It’s always better to ask for help early.
If you're homeless or threatened with homelessness
It’s usually worth applying to your local council for help if you're homeless - or if you’ll be homeless soon.
Depending on your situation, the council might:
-
find somewhere for you to stay short term
-
help you stay where you’re currently living - for example by talking to your landlord
-
find somewhere for you to live long term - this might be council housing or renting from a private landlord
Check if you can apply for homeless help from the council.
If you're homeless and the council won't house you
You’ll need to consider finding a temporary place to stay if you don’t have anywhere you can stay tonight.
It’s worth asking friends or family members if you can stay with them while you find somewhere.
If you’ve slept outside overnight or you’re planning to sleep outside tonight
You can get help from Streetlink. They’ll help you get help from your local council or charities. You’ll need to tell Streetlink where you’re sleeping on their website. They’ll find you and help you find somewhere to stay. You might be able to get a place to stay in a hostel, night shelter, refuge or bed and breakfast. You can ask your local council for contact details of places to stay.
If the council have decided they won’t help you and you think they might be wrong, check if you can challenge the council’s homeless decision.
You can also contact Shelter:
- Shelter helpline: 0808 800 4444
💬 It’s always better to ask for help early.