Reaching out now could prevent homelessness and connect you to the support you need.

Your local council
If you’re at risk of homelessness, reach out to your local council immediately. They will explain your options, which depending on your situation may include:

• offering you emergency accommodation
• completing an assessment to understand your situation better
• helping you access other services that can help
• recommending you register for social housing.

If you are in Temporary Accommodation
Temporary accommodation is intended to provide safe and suitable short-term housing for people and families who meet the council’s eligibility criteria.
Shelter advises that if you’ve been offered temporary housing that is not suitable:

• Accept the offer even if you do not want to live there.
• The council can stop helping you if you turn it down.
• You have 3 weeks to ask for a review. You may be able to get free legal help.

Shelter
Shelter offer comprehensive advice for different situations

Council support if you are being asked to leave where you are staying: Shelter – if you are asked, or want to leave
Council support during relationship breakdowns and other causes of homelessness: Shelter – relationship breakdowns
And Temporary Accommodation and your rights: Temporary Accommodation

Live Well Kent and Medway
Live Well Kent & Medway can provide support for people who are sofa surfing, or whose housing situation is affecting their mental health.
Visit their website for more information on how to get help.
Website: Live Well Kent and Medway

Canterbury Housing Advice Centre
Offer free and confidential housing advice free, confidential independent and impartial advice on most housing matters, including:

Meetings are available in Canterbury, Herne Bay or Whitstable. Booking an appointment in advance is recommended.
Telephone: 01227 762605

Email: adviceteam@chac.co.uk

Website: www.chac.co.uk