Housing
Finding the best type of housing can be a daunting task. Some people face tough issues when it comes to the availability of housing. For example, people with mental illness can find it hard to find housing although, for others, this has no impact on them because they can live in apartments or in their own homes independently.
Housing that is affordable
Depending on your area, there could be a couple of affordable housing developments. Some are geared for people with disabilities, the homeless, the elderly, people with a low income or people living with mental illness.
You can talk to different authorities or agencies to find out what is available. This could be a mental health agency in your community, local housing authority, social services, housing advocacy organisation or a mental health organisation. Independent-living centres also offer housing referral assistance to people with disabilities and those with mental health conditions.
Permanent housing
To get permanent housing in the UK, you need to pass all the council’s homelessness tests.
What the council looks into before deciding
- Whether you are homeless or threatened with homelessness
- Whether you are eligible for assistance
- They check to see that you did not become homeless intentionally
- Whether you have local connection to the area
Once you are approved for permanent housing, you may be offered a choice of more than one home although in some areas you may only get one offer. If you are content with the offer and accept one, the council will let you know when to move in.
Can I change my mind once I am given an offer?
Before you decide to let go of the offer/turn it down, make sure you get advice first. The advisor will help to check whether you are likely to get a better offer, carry out negotiations with them and possibly help you arrange an exchange.
It might sometimes get difficult afterwards once you turn down the offer, this is because, the council might not be able to offer you any more help and thereby withdraw the previous offer. You will then have to leave your temporary accommodation.
Temporary Housing
You can find temporary housing help from your local council who can even help with your rent costs if you are on low income or benefits. You may need to stay in temporary housing for a couple of years or months, the council or bureau may work out a good plan that will help settle you into temporary accommodation for the needed time.
Temporary housing includes housing with support, flat (private) and a housing association flat. It is important to review a housing offer in order to make the best decision.
A temporary housing offer can be reviewed by the council to get you sorted out if;
- Unaffordable (more than what you had in mind)
In poor condition.
Inaccessible because of a certain condition you may be experiencing.
Homeless shelters also act as shelter for adults or families with children. They help take in emergency cases and they are operated by churches, local authorities, non-profit organisations or even centers that cater to mental health counselling.
