Applying for Emergency Housing Support in England

If you find yourself homeless or about to be evicted in England, you may be entitled to emergency housing through your local council. Understanding your rights and the process can help ensure you get safe accommodation quickly. This guide explains how renters in England can seek emergency housing support, what forms are required, and the legal protections available under English law.

What Is Emergency Housing?

Emergency housing—also called temporary accommodation—is short-term housing provided by local councils for people who are legally homeless or at imminent risk. This support is a crucial safety net if you have nowhere safe to stay after eviction, relationship breakdown, or other crisis situations.

Who Qualifies for Emergency Housing Support?

You may be eligible for emergency housing if you:

• Are homeless or expect to become homeless within 56 days
• Are eligible for public funds (based on your immigration status)
• Have a priority need (such as families with children, pregnant people, people who are vulnerable due to age, illness or disability, or fleeing domestic abuse)
• Have not made yourself intentionally homeless (the council will assess this)
• Have a local connection, though councils sometimes help those without one in extreme cases

All applications and housing decisions are overseen by your local council (also called the local housing authority). The main law covering emergency accommodation is the Housing Act 1996^[1].

How to Apply for Emergency Housing: Step-by-Step

Applying quickly is important if you risk being left without a home. Here are the key steps to follow:

1. Contact Your Local Council

Get in touch with your local council's housing or homelessness team as soon as you know you may be homeless. You can find your local council here. You can apply in person, by phone, or online.

2. Complete the Homelessness Application

Tell the council you need help because you are homeless or threatened with homelessness. Councils usually have an online form or can assist you at their offices. You do not need to wait until you are on the street to apply.

3. Provide Supporting Evidence

You will be asked for evidence, such as:

• Proof of identity (passport, driving licence)
• Notice from your landlord or court eviction order
• Proof of your income and benefit entitlement
• Medical evidence if you have health needs

4. Councils Assess Your Application

The council will assess if you are legally homeless, have a priority need, and are eligible. While your application is considered, you may be given emergency accommodation (such as a hostel, B&B, or hotel) if you have children or are vulnerable.

5. Receive Your Decision and Next Steps

The council must give you a written decision. If you qualify, they are responsible for providing suitable temporary accommodation while looking for a longer-term solution. If refused, you have the right to request a written review.

Official Homelessness and Housing Forms

• Homelessness Application Form (varies by council – no national form number).
  • When used: When telling your council you are homeless or at risk.
  • Example: If your landlord serves a Section 21 notice, you can submit this to your council, plus the online application. Check your council’s official housing section, e.g., Apply for homelessness help.
• Housing Options Assessment (interview or online assessment per council).
  • When used: During your first meeting, the council will record your circumstances and support needs.
  • Example: The housing adviser will ask about your household, finances, and any risks, then create a Personalised Housing Plan with you. See council guidance on Homelessness Code of Guidance.
• Section 184 Notification Letter (no specific form number – written decision sent by council).
  • When used: After your assessment, the council must send you a letter explaining their decision.
  • Example: If you are refused emergency accommodation, this letter tells you why and how to ask for a review within 21 days. See council examples of notification letters in Appendix 3.

If You Disagree with the Council’s Decision

The official tribunal for housing disputes in England is the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber). For homelessness decisions, you must first request a review by the council (called a ‘Section 202 review’), and if you still disagree, you can appeal at the County Court within 21 days of their review decision. Read more on Appeal a homelessness decision.

What the Law Says

The main law covering homelessness and emergency accommodation in England is the Housing Act 1996. Sections 188 (Interim duty to accommodate), 189 (Priority need), and 184 (Enquiries into cases of homelessness) are especially relevant^[1].

1. Who is eligible for emergency housing in England?
   Most councils prioritise families with children, pregnant people, those vulnerable due to illness, disability or fleeing violence, and people facing immediate homelessness.
2. How quickly will the council provide emergency accommodation?
   If you are deemed to have a priority need and are eligible, councils must offer suitable temporary housing immediately or as soon as possible.
3. Can I apply for emergency housing before I'm evicted?
   Yes, you can apply if you have been given notice by your landlord and face homelessness in the next 56 days. Early action is encouraged.
4. What should I do if the council says no to emergency help?
   You have the right to ask for a detailed written review (‘Section 202 review’) within 21 days of the decision letter and potentially appeal to the County Court.
5. Will I need to leave my area to get emergency housing?
   Where possible, councils try to place you locally, but temporary accommodation might be elsewhere if local supply is limited. You can ask for this to be considered.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters

• Contact your local council as soon as you’re facing homelessness or eviction.
• You have legal rights under the Housing Act 1996 to assessment and, if eligible, to emergency accommodation.
• You can review and appeal council decisions about emergency housing.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Apply for homelessness help from your council
• Shelter England: Homelessness Advice (charity with expert guidance and free helpline: 0808 800 4444)
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)
• Find your local council’s housing department

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1. Housing Act 1996 – Full Text on legislation.gov.uk

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