HOMELESSNESS

What is homelessness?

Homelessness means not having a home. You don't have to be living on the street to be homeless, even if you have a roof over your head you can still be without a home. This may be because you don't have any rights to stay in the place where you live or your home is unsuitable for you.

You can be classed as homeless in a number of different situations including;

• Sleeping on the streets
• Staying with family or friends
• Staying in a hostel or bed and breakfast
• At risk of violence in your home
• Living in poor housing conditions

Why do people become homeless?

There are so many reasons why someone may become homeless. Homelessness doesn't take into account your age, sex, colour, financial status, upbringing or beliefs. Some of the more common reasons for homelessness are;

• Relationship breakdowns
• Eviction
• Losing your job
• Family breakups
• Natural Disasters
• Health Problems
• Addiction
• Lack of Independant Living Skills

If you are homeless, what should you do?

If you have nowhere to stay or are worried about having to leave your home you can ask the council for help by making a homeless application. To do this you should contact the Homeless Assessment Prevention and Advice (HAPA) service,details are available at your local Council Housing Office. Or if you are homeless outwith normal working hours you can telephone 08000 196 500 or contact your nearest police station.

For more information including a step by step guide of the homeless procedure click here.