Care leavers and homelessness

If you are an 18 to 25-year-old care leaver and worried about homelessness then Housing Options may be able to help you. 

You will be considered a priority under the Homeless Reduction Act if you are a person under 21 who was looked after, accommodated or fostered by the local authority between the ages of 16 and 18 (except relevant students).

In addition, if you are aged 21 or over you may have a priority need if you are vulnerable as a result of having been looked after, accommodated or fostered by the local authority at any time.

If you call Housing Options on 01332 888777 and we will:

• assess your current housing circumstances and needs, for example, medical and risk
• liaise with other agencies such as Leaving Care, to ensure that you receive all the appropriate support
• discuss with you options to resolve your housing situation, which could be staying with family and friends or placement in supported accommodation.

You could also speak to your allocated Personal Advisor at Leaving Care.

Leaving Care have a duty team who you can contact Monday to Friday from 1pm to 5pm. Call 01332 643907 and ask to speak to a duty officer.

If you are currently in care, Children’s Social Care are responsible for finding somewhere for you to live and you will need to discuss this with your allocated Social Worker.

If you are a care leaver aged over 21 and your case has been closed, you can return to request support from the Leaving Care Service up to the age of 25.