I'm at risk of being or already am homeless

What you should do first

If you are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, you should make an appointment with our Housing Options team who may be able to help you to stay in your current home or to find a new one.

The Council has a range of legal duties to help homeless people. This help may involve giving advice and information or finding long term housing. It may also involve you completing a homeless application.

You should be aware that emergency accommodation and social housing is not always available to people facing homelessness, particularly single people. Applicants will be encouraged and enabled to try and stay with family and friends in the short term whilst looking for private rented accommodation, which is the quickest way to find a new home in Hastings.

If this option is not suitable or available other options for help may include supported accommodation organised through the Council, Refuge accommodation and the local services set out on the Street Sheet designed for people who are rough sleeping or sofa surfing.

• Street sheet

What you will need to bring to your homelessness interview?

To investigate any homeless application we need to see proof of identity, income and address history for all members of your households. You should also bring proof of medical conditions or additional supporting information.

If you are in immediate need of emergency accommodation outside of office hours you should call 01424 451999.

Other support available

Shelter can provide specialist advice and support if you are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, including information on your rights if you're homeless and how to avoid becoming homeless.

BHT Hastings Advice can give advice on possession action, homelessness, and disrepair.

If you feel you need local housing support to help you with any housing issues you're experiencing, Home Works or STEPS may be able to help you:

• Home Works provides tailored support for people aged between 16 and 64. Telephone 01273 898700, text 07773 377 754 or email referrals@home-works.org.uk
• STEPS provides specialist support for people aged 65+. Telephone 03001232422 or email referrals@stepseast.co.uk