Contents. 1. Temporary accommodation Frequently asked questions A new start Contact us... 7

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2 Contents 1. Temporary accommodation Frequently asked questions A new start Contact us

3 1. Temporary accommodation There are many common misconceptions surrounding the subject of homelessness, however the fact is that individuals both young and old, and even whole families can suddenly find themselves without a home for many different reasons. Losing a job, struggling with health or relationship problems, being evicted by a private landlord, or perhaps being affected by a disaster such as a house fire or flooding could lead to someone becoming unexpectedly homeless and requiring Temporary Accommodation. Our Temporary Accommodation is provided for both single people and families who are homeless and in priority need. We aim to ensure that all residents are treated with dignity and respect, and that positive steps are taken towards breaking the cycle of homelessness. What do I do if I have been made homeless or am worried about becoming homeless? Nominations for our Temporary Accommodation are made by your local authority and at the discretion of its Housing Advice Service. In the case of people living in North Hertfordshire, please contact North Hertfordshire District Council (NHDC): Housing Advice Service North Hertfordshire District Council Gernon Road Letchworth Garden City SG6 3JF Telephone

4 2. Frequently asked questions When is Temporary Accommodation used? It may be for one of the following reasons: While further enquiries into the circumstances of your homelessness are being made by the local authority While a decision is being reached on your homelessness If the Council has accepted responsibility to house you, but an offer of permanent accommodation hasn t yet been made from the Common Housing Register Emergency accommodation What support will I receive from North Hertfordshire Homes? During your stay in Temporary Accommodation, you will be assigned a Tenancy Sustainment and Resettlement Officer; they will work with you providing a range of support covering financial matters, including rent and Housing Benefit, emotional and social issues. They will also be able to refer or direct you to other agencies who provide additional services. With your full involvement, a needs and risk assessment and a support plan will be completed to advise and inform us of the support you need to make your stay a positive one. The aim of Tenancy Sustainment is to achieve a planned move on from Temporary Accommodation to permanent or settled accommodation and to help you sustain your new tenancy. Will I receive Housing Benefit? If you are on a low income, you may be able to make a claim for Housing Benefit. We will be able to help you make a claim. Where is the accommodation and what properties are available? We provide Temporary Accommodation in all the main urban centres across North Hertfordshire; our aim is to maintain family friendly and positive environments in all our properties, with facilities that best meet the needs of our residents. 4

5 Accommodation ranges from flats, with some communal facilities, to self-contained two bedroom apartments. The type of property you will be allocated will depend on availability and your individual housing needs. How long will I be in Temporary Accommodation? We cannot tell you how long you will be in Temporary Accommodation. This is dependent on the availability of property, your family s housing needs and the choices and preferences you selected on the application form. During your stay you need to be aware of the conditions of occupancy and ensure that you pay any charges that are due in full as arrears can affect your ability to move on. What happens if I am asked to leave my Temporary Accommodation for rent arrears or anti-social behaviour reasons? If you are made homeless from your Temporary Accommodation you may be deemed intentionally homeless and would then be responsible for finding your own accommodation. 5

6 3. A new start How do I go about moving on to permanent accommodation? It is very important that you complete a Common Housing Register application form from your temporary address. This needs to be completed as soon as possible once you have moved in so that you can be considered for permanent accommodation. We can help you with thi Once registered on the Common Housing Register you will be able to express an interest in a suitable property. Your Tenancy Sustainment and Resettlement Officer can help you with this process and allocation of a property will depend on your individual housing need. North Hertfordshire Homes operate a Choice Based Lettings scheme. To ensure your greatest choice in permanent accommodation you will need to participate actively in the bidding process. Will I receive ongoing support once in permanent accommodation? If you need the Tenancy Sustainment and Resettlement Officer to continue their work with you and your family once you move to permanent accommodation, an assessment of your exact needs will be made. If applicable, the support can continue for up to two years to help you make a success of your permanent tenancy. You can request for the provision of support to be reviewed at any time. 6

7 4. Contact us Website Telephone Write North Hertfordshire Homes Rowan House Avenue One Letchworth SG6 2WW Visit North Hertfordshire Homes 7 Portmill Lane Hitchin SG5 1DJ North Hertfordshire Homes Limited Rowan House, Avenue One, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire SG62WW 7