Based on what you have told us, we have these suggestions.
While this is not a substitute for personalised, professional advice, we hope it is a useful starting point.

Your Area

Your local council is: Ashford Borough Council
Website: www.ashford.gov.uk
Main telephone number: 01233 331111 (Monday to Thursday: 8am – 5pm, Friday: 8am – 4.30pm)

Your county council is: Kent County Council
Website: www.kent.gov.uk
Main telephone number: 03000 41 41 41 (Monday to Friday: 9am to 5pm)

Don’t wait to seek help. Reaching out now could prevent homelessness and connect you to the support you need.

If you’re sleeping rough
If you’re sleeping outside, preparing to sleep, or staying somewhere not meant for living, like a car, StreetLink can connect you with local outreach services.
Here’s what to do:

How to register an alert
1. Visit www.thestreetlink.org.uk or call 0300 500 0914.
2. Share your exact location and times you’ll be there; outreach teams usually go out at night.
3. Describe your appearance (e.g., clothing, colour of tent or sleeping bag, pets) to help the team identify you.
4. Provide contact details if possible – you can choose to receive updates via email or SMS.

What happens next?

  • Local outreach teams will aim to find you within 2–3 working days. They will have identification to show who they are. They may work for the council or a charity.
  • If your location changes, you will need to submit a new alert to make sure the teams can find you.
  • If they cannot find you they will leave a card with their contact details on.
  • Outreach workers will ask you for some information to understand your needs.

    • They will then discuss support options with you, such as:

  • safe accommodation
  • mental health services
  • benefits or employment advice.

    • Extreme weather
    During severe weather, the local council may activate SWEP (Severe Weather Emergency Protocol) to provide emergency shelter.
    Check your local council’s website for updates.

    Bright City Church
    Free hot lunch, pudding, and hot drinks to anyone regardless of housing situation.
    There are also free food parcels for those in need.

    Mondays: 11.30am – 12.30pm (Bank Holidays may vary)
    Bright City Church, Centrepiece, Bank Street Ashford, Kent, TN23 1BA

    Telephone: 01233 334007
    Website: www.brightcitychurchuk.com

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