Homeless

Homelessness doesn't just mean living on the streets. You can be homeless if you don’t have the right to remain where you are living, or if it is unreasonable for you to stay there because of difficult circumstances. Don't wait until you are living rough–you can get advice straight away.

If you are homeless or threatened with homelessness, get advice immediately. You can go to a local Housing Aid Centre/ Access point or Housing Needs & Support Centre.

At the Housing Needs Service, you will be assessed to see whether you fit the criteria of the Housing Act 1996 and the amendments contained in the Homelessness Act 2002. If you are assessed and are homeless through no fault of your own there is a duty by some housing providers to help you, you will usually be offered temporary accommodation if you have nowhere else you can stay. However, they should find temporary accommodation which is suitable. Once they are satisfied that you fit the criteria then they will try to make you permanent offers of accommodation from their waiting list. You do have various rights to appeal against many of the decisions made by those providing accommodation including suitability of temporary accommodation. If you have any concerns about the way your case has been dealt with, get independent advice from a Housing Aid Centre/ Access Point or CAB .f you are not assessed as priority, you have the right to advice and assistance - please ask.If you are 16/17 you are entitled to be assessed as a ‘child in need’ under The Children Act 1989 by Services to Children & Young People THIS IS YOUR RIGHT. All 16 & 17 year olds are now automatically accepted as homeless under the Homlessness Act 2002.