Help someone find accommodation or housing
From their local council to charities, there's plenty of places they can go for advice and support with finding a safe, secure home.
Act fast
It's important to explain to your family member or friend that there's help out there and there's nothing to feel ashamed about.
The other key thing is to act fast. If they think they might lose their home it's a good idea to reach out for help right away - they might still be able to stay in their home.
Suggest they speak to their local council housing office
The most important thing for your family member or friend to do is to speak to the housing office at their local council.
The council will do an assessment to work out the best steps to take. Whether your family member or friend is a private tenant or a council tenant, the council can help them sort out issues with rent and arrange payment plans if they are behind on payments (in arrears).
If their home is in a bad state of repair, the council might be able to help with a grant to pay for the improvements they need to stay there.
They can also help with finding emergency housing.
Find the website for your local council
Other support
There are lots of charities that can also offer advice:
- Citizen's Advice: get help with understanding your rights, knowing the right way to deal with landlords, and find out how to get help from the council. They can also give advice on money matters. Find your local branch or call the helpline on 03444 111 444.
- Shelter: get advice on homelessness, eviction, renting, repossessions and more. Find your local service or call the helpline on 0808 800 4444.
- Local charities and community groups: try searching for local services and community groups in your family member or friend's local area. They might run drop-in sessions where they can get advice, or be able to tell them about local hostels and emergency accommodation.