Am I homeless or threatened with homelessness?
Under the Housing Act 1996 Part VII, you are 'homeless' if:
- You have no accommodation you are entitled to occupy (by permission as a tenant or owner); or
- Your family have to live apart because you do not have somewhere you can all live together; or
- You have a home but cannot gain entry to it; or
- You have a home but you are in danger of violence from a partner, ex-partner with whom you live or used to live, or are in danger of violence from a close relative; or
- You have a home but it is unreasonable for you to go on living in it.
You are treated as threatened 'with homelessness' if it is likely you will be homeless within 28 days.
If you are losing your home or are worried that you may become homeless, please contact the Housing Department (01720) 422537 as soon as possible. Do not wait until you receive notice or are threatened with homelessness. With early advice, you may be able to save your home, get extra time or at least help minimise debt.
Am I in priority need?
Again the Housing Act 1996 Part VII, sets out the groups of people who are generally seen as having a priority need. You are likely to be in priority need if:
- You have dependant children under 16 normally living with you; or
- You have dependant children under 19 normally living with you who are still in full time education; or
- You or a member of your household is pregnant; or
- You are homeless following a fire, flood or similar emergency; or
- You or a member of your household are considered 'vulnerable' because of :
o Old age;
o Mental illness or handicap; or
o Physical disability; or
o Other special reasons.
- You are aged 16 or 17 and not a relevant child
- You are 18 - 21 and a relevant child
- You are vulnerable as a direct result of :
o Being subjected to violence connected to your present accommodation
o Serving in the regular armed forces and have been homeless since discharge
o Having been detained in lawful custody and have been homeless since release
The Council will expect to get information to show that you fall within one of the above groups. This may include checking with your G.P., speaking to schools, the Benefits Agency, Social Services or anyone else who may be able to help.
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