Temporary and emergency housing

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Housing options for lone parents factsheet

If you need to leave your home urgently, you may need to find temporary or emergency housing. If possible, it is best to make a homeless application and be referred to temporary accommodation by the local authority (see What will the local authority do if I am entitled to help?).

Types of temporary accommodation available are:

Hostels - it is likely that you and your children will be accommodated in one large bedroom and share other facilities (such as kitchen and bathroom) with other residents.

Refuges - mainly for women, although there are also limited refuges provided for men, and their children (if any), if you have experienced violence, threats or abuse from someone who lives with you (or who used to live with you).

Bed and breakfast (B&B) hotels - can be expensive. Sometimes residents will not be allowed to stay in the hotel during the day and there are usually no cooking facilities. Check whether they accept children and people on benefit and how long you'll be allowed to stay.

Short-life housing - provides temporary housing to single, homeless people, but is sometimes accessible to people with children. Most properties are awaiting major repairs or demolition and you are usually expected to carry out decorations and minor repairs.

Squatting - may be an option if you need a place to live and can't find other accommodation. It is not illegal, but damaging a property while entering it may constitute criminal damage, which is an offence. It is wise to get gas, electricity and water properly connected, as using them without contacting the suppliers is illegal.

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Lone parents caring for a child with a disability or long- term health problem

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