Hi everyone, this is official_itshissound from TikTok, and welcome to my blog. In this post, I’m going to answer some of the most common questions about homelessness and temporary accommodation in the UK. Whether you are facing homelessness yourself, know someone who is, or just want to learn more about this important issue, this post is for you. Let’s get started!
How do I apply for temporary housing?
If you are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, you should contact your local council as soon as possible. They will assess your situation and decide if you are eligible for temporary housing. Temporary housing is a place to stay while the council tries to find you a longer term solution. It could be a hostel, a bed and breakfast, a hotel, or a private rented property.
To apply for temporary housing, you may have to provide some documents to prove your identity, income, and housing history. For example, you may need:
A passport, driving licence, or birth certificate
A bank statement, payslip, or benefit letter
A tenancy agreement, eviction notice, or letter from your landlord
The council will also ask you some questions about why you are homeless, how long you have been homeless, and what support you need. They will use this information to determine your level of need and priority.
What are my rights and responsibilities in temporary housing?
You have the right to stay in temporary housing until the council finds you a longer term solution, unless you:
Refuse an offer of suitable accommodation
Become intentionally homeless (for example, by leaving a place where you could have stayed)
Withdraw your application or stop cooperating with the council
You also have the right to challenge or complain about the quality, location, or suitability of your temporary housing. For example, you can challenge or complain if:
Your temporary housing is too far from your work, school, or family
Your temporary housing is unsafe, unclean, or overcrowded
Your temporary housing does not meet your specific needs (for example, if you have a disability, a medical condition, or a pet)
You have the responsibility to pay rent and bills, follow the rules of your accommodation, and cooperate with the council and support services. For example, you have the responsibility to:
Pay your rent and bills on time and in full
Keep your accommodation clean and tidy and report any repairs or damages
Follow the rules of your accommodation (for example, no smoking, no visitors, no noise)
Cooperate with the council and support services (for example, by attending appointments, providing information, and following advice)
How can I get help with rent or other costs in temporary housing?
You may be able to claim housing benefit or universal credit to help you pay for rent and other costs in temporary housing. Housing benefit and universal credit are benefits that help people on low income or no income with their housing costs. The amount you can get depends on your income, savings, and circumstances.
You may also be entitled to other benefits or grants depending on your circumstances. For example, you may be able to get:
Council tax reduction to help you pay your council tax
Discretionary housing payment to help you with extra housing costs (for example, rent in advance, deposit, or moving costs)
Hardship payment to help you with essential living costs (for example, food, clothing, or heating)
You can check your eligibility and apply for these benefits and grants online or contact your local council or a charity for advice.
How can I find longer term housing after temporary housing?
The council has a duty to help you find longer term housing if you are still homeless after 56 days and have a priority need and are not intentionally homeless. Priority need means that you are more vulnerable than the average person because of your age, health, or situation. For example, you may have a priority need if you are:
Pregnant or have dependent children
Elderly or have a physical or mental disability
Fleeing domestic abuse or violence
A care leaver or a former member of the armed forces
The council may offer you one of the following types of longer term housing:
Social housing: This is housing owned and managed by the council or a housing association. It is usually cheaper and more secure than private rented housing. However, there is a high demand and a long waiting list for social housing, so you may not get an offer quickly or in your preferred area.
Private rented housing: This is housing owned and managed by a private landlord or an agency. It is usually more expensive and less secure than social housing. However, there is more choice and availability of private rented housing, so you may get an offer sooner and in your preferred area.
Supported housing: This is housing that provides extra support and services for people with specific needs. For example, there are supported housing schemes for people with mental health problems, substance misuse issues, or learning disabilities. Supported housing can help you live independently and improve your wellbeing.
You can accept or reject the offer of longer term housing, but be aware that if you reject a suitable offer, the council may end their duty to you. A suitable offer is one that meets your needs and preferences, is affordable, and is in a reasonable location. You can challenge the suitability of an offer if you think it is not suitable for you.
What can I do if I need more support or advice?
There are many organisations and charities that can provide you with more support or advice on homelessness and temporary housing. Some of them are:
Shelter: Shelter is a national charity that helps people with housing and homelessness issues. They provide free and confidential advice, advocacy, and legal services. You can contact them by phone, email, web chat, or visit their website or local service.
Crisis: Crisis is a national charity that helps people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. They provide practical and emotional support, education and training, and campaigning and research. You can contact them by phone, email, or visit their website or local centre.
Homeless Link: Homeless Link is a national membership organisation that represents and supports homelessness services. They provide information, resources, and networking opportunities for homelessness professionals and organisations. You can contact them by phone, email, or visit their website or local network.
Citizens Advice: Citizens Advice is a national network of independent charities that provide free and impartial advice on a range of issues, including housing, benefits, debt, and consumer rights. You can contact them by phone, email, web chat, or visit their website or local office.
That’s all for today, folks. I hope you found this post helpful and informative. If you have any more questions or comments, please leave them below and I’ll try to answer them in future posts. And don’t forget to follow me for more tips and stories on homelessness and temporary housing. Thanks for reading and see you next time!