Housing & Being Homeless

Leaving home is a natural step for young people and can be very exciting; it may well be one of the most important steps you will ever make. If you are thinking of leaving home you will probably be asking yourself a lot of questions.

At what Age can I leave Home?

Under 16 Social Services (see 'money' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page) have a responsibility to help you. They may place you with foster parents or you may be returned home depending on your individual circumstances.

16/17 Technically, your parents are still responsible for you until you are 18, but you can obtain your own tenancy.

18 or over You can leave home without consent.

There are many different reasons why young people leave home and get a place of their own:

• Going to college or university
• Family disputes
• Poor housing/lack of room in family home
• Leaving care
• Getting married or starting to live together
• Getting a job that requires you to live away from home
• Because you want to - the time feels right
• Fleeing abuse.

It can be difficult to cope when you first leave home and you are on your own. However, there are agencies which can help and support you and if you are in doubt or are experiencing difficulties - always ask for help.

Where am I going to live?

Council

Council accommodation varies between flats, bedsits and houses and is usually unfurnished. A council tenancy is secure and you have certain rights, such as the right to have repairs carried out.

Who can apply?

Anyone over 16 and who lives in the United Kingdom. Tenancies will not be granted to anyone under 18 unless they have been accepted as homeless. Any homeless person under 16, would be automatically referred to social services and not offered a tenancy.

Ask your local Housing Aid Centre for help if you are interested (see 'housing' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page).

How do I apply?

To apply for council housing you need to fill in a housing application form available from any of the local Council Housing Offices(see 'housing' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page).

There are notes to help you with this form and housing staff will be happy to assist you, unless you are homeless

Please note that  in Wakefield you can apply to your local council till December 2004, and after this you will need to apply direct to Wakefield District Housing Association.

Check your local housing office for more details.

Points System

As there are not enough Council homes for everyone who wants one, a Points Scheme is used to decide who is in most need. Your points are worked out from your application form.

Your local Council or Housing Aid Centre can give you more advice and assistance. (Please note that Bradford district no longer uses a points system.)

(see 'housing' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page for further details).

A Points Scheme cannot cover every situation, so there are some applications which are dealt with outside the scheme. For instance, if you are homeless or cannot remain at home due to very difficult problems, then you should contact your local Housing Aid Centre or Housing Needs Support Centre.

(see 'housing' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

How much is the rent?

The cost of a one bedroom flat suitable for a single person will vary. This variation in rent takes into account the age and condition of the flat.

Housing Associations

These are very similar to council housing and are regulated by the Government, so they have certain standards they must maintain. You will need to apply to them direct as they all have their own waiting list, as well as accepting nominations from the Council.

Nominations are where the Council can put forward people from the top of their waiting list to be considered for housing association accommodation. Lists of Housing Associations are available from Housing Aid Centres (see 'housing' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page) or CAB (see 'you and your rights' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page).

Housing Associations are unlikely to offer a tenancy to someone under 18 without a guarantor. You must also keep them informed of any change of circumstance or address.

Private Rented Housing

Private rented housing takes various forms from bedsit, flat to a house. It can be furnished or unfurnished. The rents tend to be higher in private rented accommodation and the landlord will usually require a deposit or bond.

Where is Private Rented Housing Advertised?

You may find private rented accommodation by reading the local papers or in shop windows. Estate Agents often have lists of private rented housing. However they may charge you an administration fee. You will be able to get an idea of the cost and type of accommodation available from these lists.

What is a bond?

Most private landlords/ladies ask for a bond of up to £300 and/or at least 4 weeks rent in advance. The bond is returnable unless there has been any damage to the property or there is any outstanding rent. If you are claiming Job Seekers Allowance or Income Support, it may be possible to get a loan for up to 4 weeks rent in advance from the Social Fund (See one off grants and loans); this is then deducted from your benefits over a period of time. However, this is not an automatic payment. Your situation will be assessed as they only have a fixed amount of money to help people every year.

How much is rent?

The rent will vary depending on where the property is located, the type and size of it and whether it is furnished or unfurnished. Rents can vary.

It is very important to remember if you are receiving Housing Benefit then this is usually restricted for single people under 25 to the cost of a single room or bedsit - about £30 to £35 per week. This restriction applies in the private rented sector (this restriction does not apply to council or housing association accommodation) regardless of what your landlord will charge you for rent. This means if you choose to move into an expensive property you would have to pay the rest of the rent from your benefits.
Please note there may be exceptions e.g. if you have left care or are a single parent. Check with a Housing Aid Agency (see 'housing' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

Before signing a tenancy agreement (an agreement between you and your landlord/lady stating who is responsible for such things as repairs, decorating, bills, and how much notice you must give before leaving the accommodation etc.), it may be useful to have this checked by a Housing Adviser (see 'housing' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page). Ask the landlord/lady for an inventory list (list of contents in the accommodation).

Make sure you get a receipt for any money handed over. It may be useful to have a rent book to record all the rent paid. If there is any disrepair in your home, ask your landlord to carry out any necessary repairs. If he does not do as you ask, contact your local Housing Aid Centre (see 'housing' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page) who will be able to advise you of your rights or contact the Council.

Try not to get behind with your rent as your landlord may take action to get you out of the property. If you do get into arrears with your rent, you should get advice quickly from your local Housing Advice Centre or CAB (see 'you and your rights' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)

Board & Lodgings

Board & Lodgings is like private rented accommodation except:

• You often share accommodation with other tenants or the landlord/lady and their family.
• Meals are provided for which you pay extra. Friends, relatives, guest houses and pubs may provide board & lodgings but there may be problems with benefit entitlement and you do not have as many rights as in your own tenancy - get advice first.

Buying your own home

This is a long term option and is only possible if you have a regular income and are in permanent employment - get advice from your local Housing Aid Centre (see 'housing' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page), CAB (see 'you and your rights' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page) or independent financial adviser.

What is a Mortgage? (See also money)

A mortgage is a sum of money that can be borrowed from a bank or building society so that you can buy your own home. The minimum age at which you can get a mortgage in your name is 18. You must have a regular income, which must be at a certain level according to how much you borrow. You will probably need a deposit.

Shared Ownership

There are also some shared ownership schemes where you can part rent and part buy, if you cannot afford a full mortgage. You should contact your local Housing Aid Centre (see 'housing' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page) for further information.

Can I afford to live independently?

(See also paying rent)

Firstly, it is important to consider the rent. Remember, in private rented accommodation, if you are able to claim Housing Benefit that this is restricted if you are under 25 to the cost of a room in a shared house or bedsit (unless you are a single parent or have left care). To claim Housing Benefit, you need to complete the forms and return them to the council as soon as you become liable for rent. You will also need to provide proof of identity and income.

Gas and Electricity

When you move into your accommodation, always have any meters read.

Don't use any gas or electrical appliances if you think there is something wrong with them as this could be dangerous. Have them checked by a qualified engineer. You can arrange to pay bills quarterly, monthly, or buy stamps.

You can also have a token meter put in so you pay as you use the gas or electricity. However, this is sometimes more expensive so it is important to get proper advice before switching to a different system.

Below are APPROXIMATE prices of gas and electric bills based on a one bedroomed accommodation:

Gas

Accommodation to include central heating, fire and cooker would cost approximately £30 per month.

Electric

The amount of electricity you use is measured in UNITS, which have different costs depending on the time of day/night you're using them.

• If you have Economy 7 and have a washing machine, use it at night, also heat your water at night. This will save you money, as this is the cheapest time to use it.
• Make sure windows are closed and block draughts around doors to increase warmth. Put polythene across windows and fasten with sellotape to create double glazing.
• Have a thermostat fitted if you have an immersion heater. Lag your tank well to keep the heat in.
• Make sure your heaters are not covered as this blocks the heat.
• Draw your curtains early on cold nights to keep heat in the room.
• Beware - some gas heaters need extra ventilation to avoid the build up of poisonous fumes.
• Any gas appliance should be checked by a Corgi registered person every 12 months. Your landlord/landlady should show you proof that he/she has had this done. There are recent rules about gas safety which are designed to help you. Ask at a Housing Aid Centre (see 'housing' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page) or CAB (see 'you and your rights' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page) for further advice.
• To make your home warmer ring your Energy Efficiency Advice Centre Tel: free phone 0800 052 7496 ( Ask about free Energy saving Bulbs)

Water Rates

These will sometimes be included in your rent and will have to be paid in full. You can pay the money in 10 monthly instalments. You can find out how much you will have to pay, by ringing:

Council Tax (See also money)

If you are aged 18 or over this may be included n your rent but if it is not then you are liable for this as you are living in the property. However, if your house is considered to be a Housing in Multiple Occupation, for instance, if you live in a bedsit with 5 other bedsits in the same building, then your landlord will be responsible for the bill. She/he may charge you more in rent to cover this cost. If you are under 18 the landlord/lady is responsible for paying Council Tax on the property. But he/she may increase your rent to pay for it. As a guide, the Council Tax on a house worth under £40,000 in Huddersfield would be £729.42 per year. If you are the only person living there, you can apply for a single person reduction which is 25%.

Council Tax Benefit (See also money)

This is available for those on low wages or state benefits. If you get Income support, or Job Seekers Allowance (income based) you will qualify for 100% benefit on Council Tax. One form is available to apply for both Council Tax Benefit and Housing Benefit (See also paying rent).

Telephone

Having a telephone can be very expensive especially if you have to pay for a new line. There may be schemes where you can receive incoming calls only.

Television

The price of a TV licence as of 1 April 2004 was:

You may pay monthly or quarterly through a bank account. If you are in receipt of benefits you can take advantage of the Easy Entry Scheme available at any post office i.e. saving stamps. A colour TV licence can be paid for through weekly payments. The fine for non payment is £1000.

Insurance

It is important to budget for insurance for house contents, eg. TV and video. These are items which are often stolen and are costly to replace.

How can I work out a budget?

Click here to use the YouthFax Budget Planner

Am I entitled to any help towards the rent? (See also paying rent)

Housing Benefit is designed to help people on low incomes pay their rent. It can either be paid directly to the landlord/lady or to the individual. The amount depends on your personal circumstances and the accommodation you are in. Some landlords/ladies will not accept people who are paying with Housing Benefit.

If you are 16/17 it is important to get advice before moving away from home as, depending on your circumstances, you may not be eligible for any help.

Remember, if you are under 25 in private rented accommodation, your housing benefit is automatically restricted to the price of a single room or bedsit. (See also paying rent)

Please note: that this does not apply to young parents or young people who have left care and are entitled to support under Section 24 of the Children Act.

Moving in

Safety and Security

There are several commonsense ways of ensuring that you are safe in your accommodation eg. a chain behind the door or a spy hole. If you feel unsafe in your home or are being bothered in any way please go to a Housing Aid Centre (see 'housing' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page) CAB (see 'you and your rights' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page) or contact the Council. If the situation becomes an emergency, try to stay calm and contact the Police as soon as possible.

Decorating

In some circumstances, you can get assistance from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), JobCentre Plus or the Council if you are in their accommodation. Check if you can, before moving in. If you are moving into private rented accommodation, check who is responsible for decorating and try to get this in writing.

Furniture

There are some furniture stores who sell second-hand furniture cheaply. BEWARE of buying second-hand electrical equipment and soft furniture, which may give off toxic fumes if a fire occurs. Some Local Authorities or charities may operate free furniture aid schemes. Ask at your local Housing Aid Centre (see 'housing' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page), CHAS (see 'housing' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page), CAB (see 'you and your rights' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page) or Social Services (see 'money' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page).

Eviction & Harassment

If you are threatened with eviction or are being harassed in your accommodation, you should go to your local Housing Aid Centre (see 'housing' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page), CAB, Law Centre (see 'you and your rights' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page) or the Local Area Housing Office, as soon as possible (see 'housing' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page). They will be able to advise you of your rights and may refer you to the Tenancy Relations Officer. They are able to prosecute landlords who are acting illegally.

Many local agencies will be able to to offer support to you once you have found a place to live. Most of them will take self-referrals and will tailor support to what you need.

Homelessness

Homelessness doesn't just mean living on the streets. You can be homeless if you dont 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 or Housing Needs & Support Centre (see 'housing' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page) (Please note in Wakefield under 18s contact Social Care Direct 01924 303456)

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 the Local Authority accepts that they have a duty to help you as a homeless person, 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 the Council including the 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 (see 'housing' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page) or CAB (see 'you and your rights' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page). If 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 Social Services. THIS IS YOUR RIGHT. If you are not accepted by the Housing Needs Service there are other schemes which may be helpful. Ask at your local Housing Aid Centre.

Hostel and Emergency Accommodation

Hostels vary a great deal. There are very few direct access hostels at which you can just turn up. You will usually have to be referred to a hostel by an agency such as the Housing Needs Service, Housing Aid or CHAS (see 'housing' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page). You may have to share a room. The length of stay will vary from place to place. Most areas have a women's refuge which are designed for women fleeing violence and they are usually staffed by females only.

Young people in and leaving care

The Children (Leaving Care) Act came into effect on 1st October 2001. If you left care after reaching 16 and before 1st October 2001, the new law does not apply to you, however, you are still entitled to advice and assistance until the age of 21 and you should speak to your social worker or contact the social services if you need help.

If you are 16 or 17 and have been in care after 1st October 2001, for at least 13 weeks since you turned 14, the new law applies to you. This means you are entitled to have a personal advisor whether you stay in care or leave. Your personal advisor will make sure that you are ready and prepared to leave care. If you leave care and are 16 or 17 you will not be able to claim benefits and the local authority that last looked after you must plan to meet all your support needs.

When you are 18 you can claim benefits but the local authority responsible for you must continue to plan to support you through your personal adviser at least until you are 21.

After 21, if you go onto residential school or higher education you will continue to be eligible for support including accommodation during the vacation.

Even if you have only been in care for one day after 16 you are still able to get some help and you should either speak to your social worker or contact the social services to find out what you are entitled to.

Running Away

A 24 hour confidential freephone helpline for those who have left home or run away to send a message home or to let someone know theyre safe. (see 'housing' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page).

Generally, leaving home should be a positive experience and by gaining good advice and support, hopefully you can avoid some of the pitfalls.

Supported Tenancies

Some local organisations can offer support and/or tenancies to young people who need help.

(see 'housing' local addresses drop down menu at the top of this page)