Finding emergency temporary housing in London can be challenging, but various options and support systems exist to help those in urgent need of accommodation.
The first step is understanding your eligibility for different types of emergency housing assistance, as this will determine which services and solutions are available to you.
This guide outlines the main options for emergency accommodation in London, including council support, charities, and alternative housing solutions.
Council Emergency Housing Support
Contact your local council’s housing department immediately if you’re at risk of homelessness or need emergency accommodation.
- Call Shelter’s emergency helpline: 0808 800 4444
- Visit your council’s housing office in person
- Use the government’s local council finder
Immediate Options for Tonight
If you need somewhere to stay tonight, these services can help:
- Streetlink: 0300 500 0914 (connects rough sleepers to local services)
- No Second Night Out: 0870 383 3333 (for first-time rough sleepers)
- St Mungo’s: 020 3856 6000 (emergency housing charity)
Temporary Housing Solutions
- Emergency B&Bs arranged by councils
- Hostels (both council and independently run)
- Women’s refuges for those fleeing domestic violence
- Night shelters (usually free but short-term)
Financial Assistance
You may be eligible for these forms of financial help:
- Housing Benefit
- Universal Credit housing payment
- Discretionary Housing Payment
- Local council welfare assistance
Charities and Support Organizations
| Organization | Contact | Services |
|---|---|---|
| Crisis | 0800 038 4838 | Housing advice, support services |
| Shelter London | 0808 800 4444 | Housing advice, emergency assistance |
| St Mungo’s | 020 3856 6000 | Emergency accommodation, support |
Priority Need Categories
These groups typically receive priority for emergency housing:
- Pregnant women
- Families with children
- People with disabilities
- Elderly individuals
- Those fleeing domestic abuse
- Care leavers aged 18-20
Documents You’ll Need
Prepare these documents when seeking emergency housing:
- ID (passport, driving license)
- Proof of income
- Proof of benefits
- Immigration status documents
- Medical documents (if applicable)
Next Steps After Emergency Housing
Start planning your longer-term housing solution while in temporary accommodation:
- Register for council housing
- Search for private rentals
- Apply for housing benefits
- Connect with housing support workers
- Consider shared housing options
Additional Support Services
Support services are available to help with various aspects of emergency housing:
- Mental health support teams
- Drug and alcohol services
- Employment advisors
- Benefits specialists
- Legal aid services
Rights and Responsibilities
Understanding your rights in emergency accommodation is crucial:
- Right to safe, habitable conditions
- Protection from illegal eviction
- Access to basic facilities
- Privacy rights
- Right to challenge decisions
Tenant Responsibilities
- Follow accommodation rules
- Pay any required charges
- Maintain the property
- Report repairs needed
- Engage with support services
Moving Forward: Creating Housing Stability
Taking steps toward permanent housing requires careful planning and support:
- Work with housing support officers
- Build a sustainable housing plan
- Access training and employment support
- Connect with community resources
- Maintain communication with support services
Remember that emergency housing is a stepping stone to more stable accommodation. Utilize available support services and maintain contact with your assigned support workers to help secure a permanent housing solution.
FAQs
- What qualifies someone for emergency temporary housing in London?
You qualify if you’re legally homeless, eligible for assistance, in priority need (pregnant, have dependent children, vulnerable due to age/disability/other factors), and didn’t become homeless intentionally. - How long does it typically take to get emergency temporary housing in London?
The council must provide immediate emergency accommodation if they believe you may be eligible, homeless, and in priority need. A decision about your full housing application should be made within 33 working days. - What documents do I need to apply for emergency housing in London?
You need proof of identity (passport/ID), proof of income, proof of current housing situation, evidence of priority need, immigration status documents if applicable, and any relevant medical evidence. - Can I choose where my temporary accommodation will be located?
No, you cannot choose the location. The council will try to place you within their borough, but due to housing pressure, you may be placed in neighboring boroughs or even outside London. - What are my rights while living in temporary accommodation?
You have the right to a reasonable standard of accommodation, repairs and maintenance, privacy, and proper notice before being asked to leave. The accommodation must be suitable for your household’s needs. - Do I have to pay rent in temporary accommodation?
Yes, you will need to pay rent, though Housing Benefit may cover some or all costs depending on your circumstances. You may also need to pay for utilities separately. - What happens after I’m placed in temporary accommodation?
The council will work on a longer-term housing solution while you’re in temporary accommodation. This could involve moving to permanent social housing or receiving support to find private rental accommodation. - Can I be moved from one temporary accommodation to another?
Yes, the council can move you to different temporary accommodation, but they must ensure the new accommodation is suitable and give reasonable notice. - What happens if I refuse temporary accommodation?
Refusing temporary accommodation without good reason may result in the council deciding they no longer have a duty to house you, ending their homelessness obligations. - Can I work while living in temporary accommodation?
Yes, you can work while in temporary accommodation. However, your earnings may affect your Housing Benefit and the amount of rent you need to pay.
