Homeless?

Being homeless is awful for anybody, anywhere.  It can be seriously life threatening in the UK during the cold months.  Social services are struggling to keep up with the demands of the population since the worldwide economical downturn, and are no longer the fail safe that they used to be.

If you find yourself in this position, contact the social services to see what help they can offer.  There is a system in place to help, and although it is not perfect, you do need to get into the system.  The Jobcentre Plus offices are the place to start, they work with the local council and act to signpost people to the correct services.  As an example, there are many food banks, but most will not be able to help you unless you have been referred to them.  The referral would be done through the Jobcentre Plus offices.

Councils should offer a 24hr telephone service for people in crisis.  The Jobcentre Plus will probably be able to guide you to yours, otherwise search the council listings under the Housing Department heading.

Most places do offer Day Centre services.  These could be independent from the council.  Available services may vary, but often include laundry and shower services. The council ought to be able to signpost you to these services in your area.

Streetlink is the name of an organisation that help people who are sleeping rough, that means literally on the street.  Contact them if you need emergency help.

Shelter offer a free helpline for people who are homeless or at risk of being made homeless.  Look them up if you are in need of their help.  Numbers do change, so I have not included them here.  

Adviceguide is a website that heps with benefits advice.  Check to see whether you can get any financial help.

Spaces is an organisation that helps single people who are Ex-services.  

When approaching the authorities to ask for help, make sure you mention all of your circumstances.  There might be support available for specific groups so mention if you are Ex-service, pregnant, have health issues, have experienced domestic violence or anything else that might be relevant.


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