If you’re already homeless, or likely to become homeless within the next 8 weeks you can apply for help getting somewhere to live from your local council. This is known as making a homeless application.

The council will look into your situation to decide what help they might be able to give you. There isn’t a set time to get a decision, but there shouldn’t be an unreasonably long delay.

Before making an application check if you’re entitled to homeless help. If you’re not sure, it’s still worth applying because the council has to review all applications.

If you’re not a British citizen and you’ve been rough sleeping your right to stay in the UK might be affected. If you’re applying to the EU Settlement Scheme your application cannot be turned down because of rough sleeping. Talk to an adviser if you’re worried that rough sleeping might affect your immigration status.

Applying to the council

It’s best to go in person or phone your local council’s housing department as soon as possible, because it can take a long time to be dealt with. Tell them you want to make a homeless application.

They’II arrange for a housing officer to interview you – this will usually be on the same day if you have nowhere to stay that night.

If the council office is closed, check their website – there should be an emergency number you can call.

If you can’t apply for help yourself, for example because you’re ill someone else can apply for you. For example, you could give consent for a family member or support worker to apply on your behalf.

Preparing to speak to the council

When you speak to the council, you’ll need to explain why you’re homeless or about to become homeless.