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: Canterbury City Council
Website: www.canterbury.gov.uk
Main telephone number: 01227 862 000 (Monday to Friday: 8.30am – 5pm)

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.

    Porchlight
    If you are:

  • over 18
  • seeping rough, homeless, or at risk of homelessness
  • experiencing challenges such as mental health problems, drug and alcohol problems, or other support needs
  • have a local connection to this area

    • You may be able to get help via Porchlight’s homelessness services.

    You can refer yourself to our services at any time. Complete our referral form on the link below and our team will contact you about next steps.
    Outreach and Accommodation Referral Form

     

    Catching Lives Canterbury Open Centre
    For people who are homeless or insecurely housed. Offering breakfast, hot lunches, laundry and washing facilities, and a range of healthcare and practical support.

    Open 7 days a week 9am – 2pm (1.30pm Wednesdays)
    Open Centre, Station Road East, Canterbury, CT1 2RB
    Website:
    www.catchinglives.org

     

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

  • threat of eviction or repossession
  • rent or mortgage arrears
  • housing benefit
  • tenancy rights
  • homelessness
  • housing waiting lists

    • 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

    Email And Print Resource

    Email Form