HELPING YOU FIND A HOME ADVICE FOR SINGLE HOMELESS PEOPLE

Transcription

1 HELPING YOU FIND A HOME ADVICE FOR SINGLE HOMELESS PEOPLE What to do Places to stay Who can help

2 Having problems with housing and looking for a new home can be a very distressing and worrying time. We have put together this booklet to help you with your search. It provides information on where to look for housing, what you can expect, ncies which can help you and details of emergency accommodation, which you can access if you do not have anywhere to stay immediately. Help from the Council Our duties to the homeless Unfortunately we cannot accommodate everyone who comes to us for help. Who we can help is decided by applying Part VII of the Housing Act 1996 (as amended by the Homeless Act 2002). There are five areas or criteria that the council investigate when they are considering what our duty is towards you: are you homeless? are you eligible? are you in priority need? are you intentionally homeless? do you have a local connection to the Borough of? If you are homeless, eligible, in priority need and not intentionally homeless you may be able to get help from the council with housing. If you are not in priority need, the council is able to provide you with advice and assistance to help you find your own accommodation. There are set categories of people who are in priority need: pregnant women and dependents who live with them; people who are responsible for dependent children; people who are homeless as a result of fire, flood or other disaster; 16 and 17 year olds; people d 18 to 21 who have been in care; and other people who are particularly vulnerable.

3 What if I m not in priority need? This leaflet has been written to help people who are not in priority need find somewhere to live. It gives useful information on how to find housing, what you can do if you do not have anywhere to stay tonight and all the help which is available to you. Help to stop you having to leave your home You should always get advice if you have been asked to leave your home. There are a range of local housing advice ncies that can provide advice and help with your housing problem, providing extra help with finding accommodation when we cannot house you. An adviser can check whether you have a legal right to stay in your current property. You don't necessarily have to leave just because you've been told to. Landlords and mortg lenders have rules to follow if they want to evict you, this normally means that you are entitled to written notice and a court order, which allow you time to arrange somewhere else to live. Even if you have already left your property, you may be able to move back in. If you live with your landlord as a lodger there are fewer rules for them to follow, they should still give you reasonable notice however, this may vary with your circumstances. If you have left your home because of an argument or problems with your family you should get some advice straight away. There are a range of ncies which can offer counselling or mediation to help you with the problems at home. If you have been asked to leave your home by your husband, wife or partner it is important to get some advice from a specialist ncy as your rights and the rules are very complicated. Getting some advice might help you to go back to your home. Staying with family and friends Staying with friends or family is often a good solution when you need somewhere to stay as it will give you somewhere to live while you find a more permanent home. If you are able to arrange this, make sure you don t out stay your welcome as the time there will be valuable while you make other arrangements. If your friend asks you to leave, there will probably be very little you can do. Most people who are staying with friends are classed as an excluded occupier, which means that they can be evicted at very short notice.

4 Emergency Housing I need somewhere to stay tonight If you are homeless or threatened with homelessness you should try to stay with friends or family while you arrange where you are going to live. If you cannot do this and need somewhere to stay tonight, you may be able to find a place in a night shelter or hostel. Hostels and nightshelters There are a range of hostels available across, they cater for a range of different circumstances, some have an open door policy and will attempt to house someone directly from the streets. Others may have to offer any vacancies to their local homeless out-reach teams, before being able to offer it to you when you approach them directly. Remember that these hostels are often in high demand, so you may need to try a number of them to see if they have a space available. We have included details in this booklet of a range of direct access hostels, which you can approach directly to help you find somewhere to stay. It's best to telephone first to check that they have room, as you may be turned away if you arrive when the hostel is full. A specialist hostel may be able to help with problems, that are making your housing situation worse, and will usually support you in finding longer-term accommodation. What is a hostel like? The type of accommodation and facilities available in a hostel will vary, many have shared kitchens and bathrooms and you will have to pay to stay there. A hostel will house people with different issues. Many have strict rules to ensure that it is a comfortable place to live. Some hostels may have times when you have to be in or may not allow visitors, and alcohol and drugs are usually banned. If you break the rules of the hostel, you can be evicted very quickly and it may be more difficult for you to find other emergency housing. How much does it cost? We have included, with the hostel list, details of how much rent you should expect to pay for each. The rent in a hostel can be quite high, however, hostels are there for emergency situations, and many will accept you even if you do not have any money but are able to claim benefits to pay for the accommodation.

5 How long can I stay? The amount of time you can stay in a hostel will vary, some will provide short term help for a few days, others will provide a bed for a couple of months, but most will help you to find somewhere more permanent to move to. Bed and breakfast hotels You may be able to find a place to stay in a bed and breakfast hotel. You can get details of cheap local bed and breakfast hotels in the Yellow Ps or Thompson local directories. Most bed and breakfast hotels will accept people at the door but it's always best to telephone first to check that they have room and, if you require help with your rent, if they accept housing benefit. Staying at a bed and breakfast can be expensive so you will probably have to pay some money before you can stay there. Refuges If you have become homeless because of abuse, violence or threats you may be able to get a place in a refuge. The addresses are kept secret to protect the people staying there. If you don't feel safe in your own area, you may be able to go to a refuge in another part of the UK. Most refuges are for women and unfortunately there are very few refuges for men, but there is always help available to ensure that you can find a safe place to stay. If you are going to be homeless because you are fleeing an abusive or violent situation, we can help you directly. We will be able to give you confidential advice and help arrange a safe place for you. Alternatively, there are specialist advice ncies that can help such as Women s Aid and the Men s Advice Line; you can find their details in this booklet. Finding longer-term accommodation If you have made short term arrangements of where to stay, or if you have time before you have to leave your home, you will need to start to think about where you are going to live in the longer-term. There are a number of options available to you depending on your own circumstances, often the most likely option will be renting privately and there is a range of different types of properties available in and surrounding areas.

6 I would like to rent a property from the council. In general, demand for affordable homes in the borough far exceeds the number of properties available. Social housing is not the right option for everyone, particularly if you have nowhere to live. Many people face a long wait for social housing and people with lower housing need may not be re-housed at all. Therefore, we do not recommend that this is a suitable option if you are actively arranging where you re going to live, as you may have to wait many years before being offered a home, and most people are never offered a property from the housing register. Private rented accommodation Renting from private landlords is often the only option available to single people and couples, particularly in the short term. Renting privately can be a good option for you as you will be able to arrange a property quite quickly and choose the type of property you like, in a location you choose. Private tenancies can be fully furnished, partly furnished or unfurnished. Think about the sort of home that will suit you before you start looking, you might want a place that is: near your family and friends; shared with other people or the landlord; furnished or unfurnished; in a particular area; available for a short time; at an affordable rent; or on the ground floor. Be realistic about what you are prepared to accept and what you can afford. Where to look You can find adverts for properties to rent in newspapers and in shop windows and on for sale boards. Landlords also let their properties through letting ncies who will find a tenant on their behalf. You can find details of local letting ncies in the yellow ps or Thompson local directory.

7 Letting ncies are likely to charge a fee for their services when you have accepted a property with them. They cannot make a charge to you for just registering with them. Useful Websites Newspapers A lot of people find accommodation through newspapers. Places go quickly so it is important to start early and follow up the advert as soon as possible. You might want to try: Guardian Chronicle Feltham and Hanworth Times Loot: Daily paper which has a large wide accommodation section Evening Standard: Daily paper with wide accommodation section. in particular has a large section Lets: only, for accommodation throughout The Guardian: Capital Radio flatshare list in The Guardian, The Guide West Post. I don t have a deposit/rent in advance Sometimes the biggest difficulty in renting privately can be having the rent in advance and deposits needed.

8 Most private landlords require a deposit, usually equivalent to one month's rent before letting a room or a property. A deposit is returnable and will be given back to you when you leave the property, unless there is any dam other than usual wear and tear. In addition to a deposit, landlords sometimes require rent in advance. If you have been claiming Income Support or Job Seekers Allowance for six months you can apply to the DWP at your local Job Centre Plus, for a budgeting loan for rent in advance. Contact details for Job Centre Plus can be found in our advice ncy listings at the end of this booklet. You can claim up to 1000 to enable you to secure private rented accommodation. Guarantors You may be asked to provide a guarantor who will sign an agreement that they will take responsibility on your behalf for any tenancy problems, including guaranteeing the rent if you fail to pay it. How much rent will I have to pay? Rents can vary greatly depending on the type of property and its location. If you rent privately and are on a low income you may be able to claim housing benefit to help you pay your rent. In April 2008 a new way of calculating housing benefit was introduced called Local Housing Allowance (LHA) which is based on the area you live, the number of people in your property and your households size. If you are a single person under the of 25, it is likely that you will only be eligible to receive Housing Benefit to cover the aver cost of a room in a shared property. They will look at: Your personal and financial circumstances: money you and your partner have coming in earnings, some benefits, tax credits and occupational pensions; your savings and any savings your partner has; and your circumstances (, size of family, disability, whether anyone living with you should help with the rent) The particulars of your home and the rent you pay: Is the rent reasonable for your particular home if you rent privately? Is your home a reasonable size for you and your family? Is the amount of rent reasonable for the area where you live?

9 Housing Benefit will not usually be paid if: you have savings of over 16,000, unless you are d 60 or over and getting the guarantee credit of Pension Credit; you live with a close relative in their home; you are a full-time student (unless you are disabled or have children); you are an asylum seeker or are sponsored to be in the UK; or you do not meet the right to reside or the habitual residence test. Housing benefit will not affect any other benefits you get. To find out more or apply for Housing Benefit contact: Revenue Services on or call into one of the council offices. Arranging to view properties When you have found a property you are interested in, you will need to arrange to go and see if you like it. As a safety precaution, it s a good idea to get a friend to go with you on the viewing and to also let someone know where you re going. When you get to the property you should make sure the property is in a good state of repair, that it is secure and all of the heating, lighting and plumbing works. If you are going to be sharing a property with other people, it s a good idea to try to meet them to see if you will get along with them. Usually private rented properties are available straight away, so try to be prepared to move in or start paying the rent quickly, or you might be able to get the landlord to hold the property for you for a short while. As some properties may be popular, it s always useful to be organised and if you like it, be ready to make a decision. Remember, the viewing is not just for you to see if you like the property, the landlord will also be seeing if they think you will be a good tenant, so its important to make a good impression. Information you will need to provide Most landlords or letting nts will want to make formal checks to see if you will be a good tenant. These may include asking for references, making a credit check and they may want to contact your previous landlord. You will need to provide your personal details and details of your salary and previous addresses.

10 Your tenancy agreement When you decide on the property you would like to rent, you will sign and be entering into a legal contract called a tenancy agreement with your landlord. Most private self-contained tenancies are assured short-hold tenancies, and usually last for six months or sometimes a year, and can be renewed by you and your landlord at the end of this time. Your tenancy agreement should give details of: the tenancy start date; the length of the tenancy if it is for a fixed period; the amount of rent, when it is due and when it may be reviewed or increased; what notice is needed from you and the landlord to end the tenancy; and your and your landlord s rights and responsibilities. Low Cost Home Ownership If you want to buy a home of your own but can t quite afford to, low cost home ownership may be what you are looking for. Low cost home ownership is a general term for a number of schemes aimed at helping people on low and moderate incomes afford to buy a home of their own. There are a variety of low cost home ownership schemes available in the Borough. The most popular scheme available is New Build HomeBuy, also known as Shared Ownership or part buy, part rent. This is where you buy a share of a new build property and pay a small proportion of rent on the remaining share you do not own. Gradually, you can buy further shares and eventually own your home outright. There are other schemes available, which enable you to purchase a property on the open market and get an equity loan for the share you cannot afford, at a very low interest. To be eligible for any low cost home ownership opportunities available in, you must be living or working in the Borough, on a moderate income and unable to afford to buy a home of your own. For more information and details of how to apply, visit and

11 Useful Information Over the following ps we have provided details of sources of further information and organisations who may be able to help you. Please note that we cannot recommend any particular accommodation, ncy or service provider, we are only providing information. We cannot accept any responsibility regarding any advice or accommodation you receive from any of the ncies included in this booklet.

12 National helplines Alcoholics General information about Alcoholics Anonymous and its recovery programme Anonymous Asylum Aid Legal advice and assistance for refugees and asylum seekers in the UK Careline Childline Crisis telephone counselling service for children, young people and adults on any issue, including relationship difficulties, depression, mental health, child abuse, bullying, rape and sexual assault, domestic violence, drug and alcohol problems and stress. A free confidential helpline for children and young people in the UK. You can talk to ChildLine about anything - no problem is too big or too small. If you are feeling scared or out of control or just want to talk to someone Get Connected A helpline providing advice on any issue Gay and Lesbian Helpline Street Rescue Mess Home Men s Advice Line National Domestic Violence helpline National Drugs Helpline Provides information, support and a referral service for lesbians, gay men, bisexual people and anyone who needs to consider issues around their sexuality. Runs a hotline, currently open 9am-12 midnight, for anyone concerned about people sleeping rough. Mess Home offers help, advice and support. If you feel unable to make direct contact with the people you have left behind, they can help by forwarding a mess on your behalf to your family, carer or partner. They will only pass on this mess and will not tell your family any other information. Your call cannot be traced The Men's Advice Line is a confidential helpline for men who experience violence from their partners or ex-partners. A helpline for women experiencing physical, emotional or sexual violence in the home. Advice, information and support. Can refer callers to local refuges and emergency and temporary accommodation across England. The National Drugs Helpline, also called 'Talk to Frank' telephone helpline offers advice, information and support to anyone concerned about drugs and solvent/volatile substance misuse, including drug mis-users, their families, friends and carers Rape Crisis Information and support for rape victims and other resources Release (Drugs Helpline) Runaway Helpline Samaritans Saneline Sexual Health Line Shelter's Free Housing Advice Helpline Victim Support Provides a range of services dedicated to meeting the health, welfare and legal needs of drugs users and those who live and work with them. Runaway Helpline is a national, free phone confidential service for anyone who has run away from home or care, or been forced to leave home. Samaritans provides confidential non-judgemental emotional support, 24 hours a day for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which could lead to suicide. SANEline is a national out-of-hours telephone helpline offering emotional support and information for people affected by mental health problems. A 24-hour, seven-days-a-week, free and confidential telephone service with advice about HIV, AIDS, sexual health, sexually transmitted infections, local services, clinics and support services. Telephone advice and information for people with a housing problem or who are homeless. Issues dealt with include housing rights, harassment, illegal eviction, rent and mortg arrears, disrepair, housing benefit, domestic violence, hostel placements and finding accommodation. Helpline open 8am - 8pm, 365 days a year. Gives free and confidential support to help you deal with what you've been through as a victim or witness of crime, whether or not you report the crime to the police

13 Hostels The Borough of is unable to recommend any particular accommodation, ncy or service provider. It is merely providing information. The Authority cannot therefore accept any responsibility regarding the advice/accommodation you receive from any of the ncies included in this booklet.

14 Project Who it s for Will not accept Min Centrepoint - Berwick Street 25 Berwick Street W1F 8RF or Young single homeless people d who are vulnerable and at risk and who have lowmedium support needs. Arsonists, bail absconders, long term homeless people and those with chaotic drug use. Max Ave How to get in Self or ncy referrals. Priority to ALS, Cardinal Hume, CSTM, New Horizon and Irish Centre. Referral questionnaire completed (name, DOB, brief housing history etc). If accepted, can move in immediately. Proof of ID preferred. How often is there vacancies Daily. Total spaces Cost per week 27 Single: 9 at bed: 9 at pw required Public transport Tottenham Court Rd, Oxford Circus, Leicester Sq or Piccadilly Circus tubes - 5 mins walk. Church Army Cosway Street 1-5 Cosway Street NW1 5NR Single homeless women with mental health, drug, alcohol or life skills issues, including multiple needs. 4 beds for emergency referrals with low support needs, maximum stay of 3 nights. 14-bed mental health unit for medium support needs. Those with a recent history of violence or arson. Women with high support needs which cannot be met by the project. Those who have used substances in the last 3 months who are not linked in with services Agency referrals only until 5pm, then accept self referrals. Self referrals permitted for 1 night, longer stay subject to interview. Phone (24 hours). Require proof of ID (birth certificate, passport, NI number, Home Office papers if relevant). Daily. waiting list for longer stay beds. 72 Includes 14-bed mental health unit. Single: 72 at for mental health unit beds. 12pw required from residents in receipt of benefits. Edgware Road or Marylebone tubes - 5 mins walk. Buses: 6, 18, 27, 98, 205. Kairos Community 22 Linden Grove Peckham SE15 3LF Single homeless people with drug or alcohol related problems with low support needs who are committed to becoming drug free and sober. Priority to those with a local connection. Those with a history of arson or severe violence. People continuing to use drugs or alcohol. 18 None 40 Self or ncy referrals. Phone (9am-5pm Mon-Fri). Interview considers applicant's commitment and ability to participate in the programme. If no vacancies, placed on waiting list. Will help with claiming benefits, and getting ID and funding. Weekly. Usually operate a 39 In 1st st and 2nd st RCH, plus 116 moveon spaces. Single: 39 at Above are charges for first st house pw required from residents receiving benefits. Peckham Rye train. Buses: 12, 35, 36, 37, 63, 78, 157, 171, 177, 312, 343, 345, 363, P12. Hostels Association 54 Eccleston Square SW1V 1PG Working people and students with no additional support needs. Unemployed people or people on benefits Self referrals. Write or phone (9am-5pm Mon-Sun) for application form. Require 1 weeks' rent in advance, 100 deposit and 20 key deposit. Require proof of ID. Weekly. No 1391 In 11 hostels. Single: 378 at bed: 292 at bed: 143 at Charges depend on whether half board or self catering. All hostels within Zones 1 and 2. Merton Action for Single Homeless (MASH) 8 Wilton Road Colliers Wood SW19 2HB Young single homeless people d Priority to those with a 6 month local connection to LB Merton. People with a history of violent crime. Those with drug or alcohol problems. People on conditional bail Self or ncy referrals. Contact by phone (24 hours). If applicant meets criteria and there is a vacancy, interview arranged (usually same day). If successful, move in immediately. Must have proof of ID. May require list of previous convictions. Weekly. No 9 Single: 1 at bed: 4 at pw required Colliers Wood tube - 5 minutes walk. Buses: 55, 57, 155, 200, 219. Missionaries of Charity - Gift of Love St George's Road SE1 6EU or Single homeless men d with low support needs, particularly those who have been sleeping rough. Men who are violent. Those currently using drugs/alcohol who do not wish to stop using while at the hostel. Men with high support needs that can not be met by the project Self or ncy referrals. Do not accept referrals on s, otherwise 8.30am-11.30am daily. Only accept applicants after an assessment by the Sister in Charge. Weekly. No 36 bed: 4 at Free 3-5 bed: 4 at Free 5+ bed: 2 at Free There is no charge for the accommodation. Lambeth North or Elephant & Castle tubes - 5 mins walk. Buses: 12, 53, 148, 188, 344, C10.

15 Project Who it s for Will not accept Min Missionaries of Charity - Home of Peace 179 Bravington Road W9 3AR Single homeless women with no or very low support needs. Prefer applicants to have a local connection to LB Westminster. Women with a history of violence. Women unable to care for themselves. Max Ave How to get in Self or ncy referrals. Phone (8.30am-11am and 2.30pm- 7pm) to check vacancies. No referrals on s. Usually require proof of ID. How often is there vacancies Daily/weekly. No Total spaces Cost per week 15 2 bed: 1 at Free 4 bed: 2 at Free 5 bed: 1 at Free There is no charge for the accommodation. Public transport Queens Park tube and rail station - 5 Buses: 6, 36, 187, 316. Salvation Army - Edward Alsop Court 18 Great Peter Street SW1P 2BT Servite Houses - Park House 227 Earls Court Road SW5 9BL Single homeless men with low support needs. Priority to those with a local connection to LB Westminster. Young women d in full time employment or education. Arsonists. Schedule One offenders. Those with a history of violence. Arsonists, women with a history of violence or with current addiction problems. 18 None 36 Self or named ncy referrals. Phone or call into project after 8.30am. Referral form sent to referrals manr. Interview. One emergency bed available nightly. Need proof of ID for emergency bed and proof of ID and income for other bedspaces Self referrals or named ncy referrals. Phone, call in or write for an application form. Application form completed by prospective resident prior to interview. Require proof of ID and income. Daily. Weekly. No 108 Single: 79 at Bedsit: 25 at Flat: 4 at Lower rate of ineligible charge in bedsits and flats pw required from residents claiming benefits. 76 Single: 76 at All charges are included in the rent. St James's Park tube - 5 mins. Buses: 11, 24, 211 (Victoria Street), 507 (Greycoat Place). Earls Court tube - 3 Buses: C1, C3, 328. SPEAR Hostel 24 Kew Road Richmond TW9 2NA Single homeless people, particularly those who have been sleeping rough. Will accept people with some support needs. Usually applicants need to be over 18, but will accept 16/17 year olds in special circumstances. Those already on a ban (always time limited) from SPEAR services. Arsonists. People with recent sexual offences. 16 None 29 Self or ncy referrals. Phone or call in for referral form between 8am-11pm. Priority to SPEAR's outreach team. Booking in includes explanation of hostel procedures and completion of housing benefit forms. Applicants must be eligible for benefits. Fortnightly spaces for women. 2 bed: 6 at pw required Richmond rail station and tube - 2 Buses: 90, 190, 290, 337, 371, 391. West YMCA 25 St Mary's Road Ealing W5 5RE Homeless people d with support needs such as mental health, drug or alcohol problems, learning difficulties or physical disabilities. Must have a local connection to LB Ealing. Also accept working people, students and tourists. "Arsonists, paedophiles." Single homeless people claiming benefits: referrals via LB Ealing and Ealing CAT only, who are asked to supply background information. Students, working people, tourists not claiming benefits can refer themselves: write or phone (9am-5pm Mon-Fri). Weekly. No 185 Including 22 selfcatering studio flats. Single: 163 at Studio: 22 at pw in catered rooms. 4.28pw in studio flats. South Ealing/Ealing Broadway tubes Project c/o 11 Alexandra Road Wimbledon SW19 7JZ People who have completed a drug rehabilitation programme in the last two years, and who require intensive support. Can accept those with alcohol problems, providing they are primarily drug users. People with a history of violence, arson or sex offences. 18 None 26 Self or ncy referrals. Phone the central referrals office on number given (10am-6pm Mon- Fri) or write. Varies - worth checking regularly. 7 Single: 7 at 98 approx 5.20pw min required from residents in receipt of benefits. Tooting Bec tube. Balham rail station - 2

16 Project Who it s for Will not accept Min Arbours Association 6 Church Lane N8 7BU People with mental health problems who have low to medium support needs. No automatic exclusions. All applications are individually assessed. Max Ave How to get in Self or ncy referrals. Phone (9am-4pm Mon-Fri) or write. Interview first by Arbours psychotherapist, then with house co-ordinators. Meetings with current residents, which may include a weekend stay. Process takes 3-6 weeks. How often is there vacancies Varies. Operate a waiting list occasionally. Total spaces 23 In 3 houses. Cost per week Single: 23 at 60 approx 26pw approx required from residents in receipt of benefits. Public transport All houses are 10 minutes walk from a tube station. ARP Camden, Hackney, Islington and Lambeth 75 Knatchbull Road SE5 9QU or People who have been alcohol and/or drug free for at least 48 hours (1st st) or 3 months (2nd st). Must be willing to maintain abstinence while living in project and eng in support services. Priority to those with local connection. No automatic exclusions. All applications considered on a case by case basis Self or ncy referrals. Phone or call in (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm). Application form completed prior to interview. Need up to date risk assessment, proof of ID and relevant reports. Weekly-monthly. No 56 In 7 schemes. Single: 56 at pw required from residents receiving benefits. Carr-Gomm - North Camden Road NW1 9AB Single homeless people with additional support needs, including mental or physical health problems, HIV/AIDS, exoffenders, care leavers, refugees, a history of drug/alcohol misuse which is now under control. Local connection preferred. People with convictions for arson or serious violent offences in the last 5 years. Those with no support needs. Those unwilling or unable to live in shared accommodation. 18 None Applicants should initially contact Carr-Gomm to see if the local authority has 100% nomination rights in a specific borough. Write or phone (9am-5pm Mon-Fri). Application pack. Interview. Needs and risk assessment. If accepted, placed on Varies. Operate a 314 In 41 schemes. Single: 314 at pw required Office: Camden Town tube. Buses: 29, 253. CASA Shared House 75 Fortess Road NW5 1AG Men with alcohol problems who have spent 3 months in rehabilitation working on their drink problem and who have gained a level of stability in their lives. Need to have been sober for at least 3 months and have low to medium support needs. Those whose primary dependence was on drugs. Those with a history of violence, sexual assault or arson. Those who are still drinking or using drugs. Those unable to cope with level of support offered by the project. 18 None 35 Self or ncy referrals. Phone (10am-5pm Mon-Fri) or write. Camden Universal Referral form and risk assessment. Assessment meetings with staff. Require reference. Must have been abstinent for at least 2 months at referral and 3 months before moving in. Varies. Operate a waiting list of about 3-6 months. 7 Single: 7 at pw required Tufnell Park tube - 5 Buses: 4, 134, 390. Causeway Irish Housing Association c/o Haringey Irish Centre Pretoria Road N17 8DX Young Irish people (by birth or descent), d 18-31, who have no support needs and are willing to live in shared housing. Can accept couples. People with a history of violence and arson. Those unwilling to abide by the equal opportunities policy Self or ncy referrals. Phone (10am-5pm Mon-Fri) to check if the waiting list is open. Application form completed prior to interview. If criteria are met, placed on waiting list until a suitable vacancy arises. Monthly. 185 In 49 properties, mainly shared accommod ation. Single: 82 at 90 aver Bedsit: 62 at 150 aver Flat: 41 at 150 aver Aver 2.50pw Office: White Hart Lane train station or Seven Sisters tube. City YMCA Barbican 2 Fann Street EC2Y 8BR People of any working or studying within and around the City of. Can accept people claiming benefits. Can accept couples. Those with current drug or alcohol problems. Those whose needs cannot be met by the low level of support the hostel offers. 16 None 20 Self or ncy referrals. Write or phone (8am-10pm Mon-Fri). Application form and interview. Require proof of identity and 4 weeks rent in advance. People claiming benefits cannot move in until their benefit has been confirmed. Varies. Operates an occasional 200 In 1 building. Single: 150 at bed: 25 at All charges are included in the rent. Barbican, Moorgate or St Paul's tubes. Buses: 4, 55, 56.

17 Project Who it s for Will not accept Min Community Housing and Therapy - Dainton House 1a Upper Brighton Road Surbiton KT6 6LQ People with severe mental health problems. Also accepts people with a dual diagnosis of mental health and substance misuse, and those with a forensic history. All referrals assessed on an individual basis. Max Ave How to get in Self or ncy referrals. Phone (9am-5pm Mon-Fri), write or visit website. Application form completed by applicant and/or referral ncy. Require placement funding, psychiatric report, risk assessment. 6 week assessment period. How often is there vacancies Monthly. Total spaces Cost per week 12 Single: 10 at bed: 1 at 850 Registered Care Home. Public transport Surbiton rail station - 5 Community Housing and Therapy - Home Base 158 Du Cane Road East Acton W12 0TX Ex-service men and women d who have been homeless or are at risk of homelessness and require low support to prepare for independent living, including those with mental health problems. Those with criminal convictions for extreme violence or sexual crimes. Those dependent on alcohol and/or drugs Self or ncy referrals. Phone, call-in (9.30am-5.30pm Mon- Fri) or write. Application form. Interview. Require proof of military service. May require psychiatric or social work reports. Can apply whilst in service and be offered a place on discharge. Monthly. waiting list of about weeks. 21 In 6- bed shared house and 15 self contained bedsits/flat s. Single: 6 at 100 Flats: 15 at pw required Hostel: East Acton tube. Flats: Paddington or Edgware Road tubes - 10 minutes walk. Community Housing and Therapy - Lexham House 28 St Charles Square North Kensington W10 6EE People with severe mental health problems. Can accept people with a dual diagnosis and those with a forensic history. All referrals assessed on a case by case basis Self or ncy referrals. Phone (9am-5pm Mon-Fri) or write. Application form. Require placement funding, psychiatric reports, background information from social worker and risk assessment. 6 weeks assessment period. Monthly. 11 Single: 9 at bed: 1 at 850 Registered Care Home. Ladbroke Grove tube. Buses: 52, 23, 7, 70, 295. ECHG - Queen Mary Mental Health Service 28 Greencoat Place SW1P 1DX Single homeless women with mental health issues requiring medium to high support. Priority to those with a connection to LB Westminster. 5 spaces for women with chronic mental health issues. 5 emergency beds for single homeless women. Women with a recent history of violence or arson. Women with current alcohol or drug dependency issues Referrals for mental health beds must come via named ncies who are notified of vacancies. Accept self or ncy referrals for 5 emergency beds by phone after 5pm. Interview. Agencies fill in referral form and risk assessment. Prefer proof of ID. Varies. No 54 Including 5 Registered Care Home beds. Single: 54 at RCH is 340pw. 9.64pw required Victoria tube/rail station. Buses: 2, 8, 36, 52, 73, 82, 185. Equinox - Mitcham Park Equinox Substance Misuse Service 3 Mitcham Park Surrey CR4 4EN Men with alcohol problems who want to maintain abstinence from alcohol, preferably referred from detox, but will accept those at least one week sober on admittance. Priority given to applicants with a LB Merton or Sutton connection. Men who are still drinking. Those with a recent history of substantial drug use. People without a connection to a South borough. 18 NON E 45 Self or ncy referrals. Write or phone (9am-4.30pm Mon- Fri). If meet criteria, interview. Aim to interview within 5 days of referral. Applicants must have stopped drinking for 5-7 days before admission. Varies. Sometimes operate a 8 Single: 8 at pw required Mitcham train and tram stations. Morden tube. Buses: 118, 264, 270, 280, 355.

18 Project Who it s for Will not accept Min Equinox Women's Service - Oulton House c/o 4th Floor Walworth Road SE17 1JE c/o Women ex-offenders who are currently on a Statutory Supervision Order or those who have served a custodial sentence of over 12 months. Priority given to those with a LB Camden connection. Max Ave How to get in Arsonists. 18 None 34 Self or ncy referrals via Probation Service. Phone (10am-5pm Mon-Fri) or write. Form completed by ncy and applicant. Interview. Require MG16, risk assessment and psychiatric report. How often is there vacancies Infrequently. Total spaces Cost per week 6 Single: 6 at pw required from residents in receipt of benefits. Public transport Harrow Churches HA - Low Support Schemes Penn House 16 Peterborough Road Harrow HA1 2BQ or Young single homeless people d with low to medium support needs. Must have a 6 month LB Harrow connection. 16/17 year olds must be referred by Social Services. Those with "unmanable aggressive behaviour" or severe drug/alcohol problems. Those with a history of sex offences, violence or arson which would put others at risk Self or ncy referrals. Phone, call in (9.30am-5.30pm Mon- Fri) or write. Application form and interview. If accepted, placed on Require risk assessment and proof of ID. Varies. Operate a 38 In 9 shared houses. 6 places for women. Single: 38 at 119 approx 10.50pw approx required from residents receiving benefits. Office: Harrow-onthe-Hill tube and Harrow bus station. Hope House 49 Saltram Crescent W9 3JS or Women recovering from drug or alcohol dependency who have been through detox, undergone a primary treatment programme and who have "some understanding of the 12 step approach to recovery". Women who have not been through detox or undergone a treatment programme. Applicants must be 2 weeks abstinent Self or ncy referrals. Phone (9.30am-5pm Mon-Fri). If referral is appropriate, assessment interview arranged. Applicants must be drug and alcohol free for at least 2 weeks prior to admission, and be willing to maintain abstinence. Monthly. Usually operate waiting list. 8 Single: 4 at bed: 2 at 709 Registered Care Home. Private clients pay pw. Queens Park tube and train station - 10 mins walk. Buses: 6, 28, 31, 36, 46, 187, 328. Hyelm Arthur West House 79 Fitzjohns Avenue NW3 6PA Young single people d with no additional support needs who have recently left home and are coming to work or study in for the first time. May accept those entitled to housing benefit. Arsonists. Sex offenders. Those with additional support needs that cannot be met by the level of staffing at the project Self referrals. Write for application pack or visit website ( ID required. Must pay a week's rent in advance. 10 key deposit. Infrequently. Waiting list of 2-4 months. 223 Single: 59 at bed: 80 at bed: 1 at 79 All charges are 15pw less after the first 4 weeks. 26pw required Hampstead tube - 3 Bus: 46. Kingston and Wimbledon YMCA - Parsons Green 6 Parsons Green SW6 4TQ Working people and students d Can accept people on benefits (if working or a student). Any other than target group Self referrals only. Apply in writing or visit for informal chat. Require 225 (2 weeks rent) room deposit and 15 key deposit. Infrequent. waiting list of 1 year. 28 Single: 28 at Prices vary according to size of room. Parsons Green tube - 2 minutes walk. Buses: 14, Local 33 Church Triumphant 26 Mayflower Road SW9 9JZ Single homeless people, including ex-offenders, with no additional support needs who are prepared to eng in training, and people with drug problems who are prepared to attend a rehab centre. People with alcohol related problems "as we do not have the facilities or trained staff to provide the support, care or supervision that they need." Self or ncy referrals. Contact in person, by phone (11am-4pm Mon, Tues, Weds and Fri) or in writing. Applicants are asked to come to the office for an informal interview and to complete an application form. Infrequent. waiting list of about 2 years. 12 In 3 houses. Single: 12 at 70 Residents responsible for paying their own utility bills. Office: Brixton, Stockwell or Clapham North tubes - 5 minutes walk.

19 Project Who it s for Will not accept Min Metropolitan Support Trust - Gay Men's Housing Apex Court 1 Woodger Road W12 8NW Gay men escaping from same sex domestic violence or homophobic violence. Can accept those with some additional support needs. Those who are not able to cope with low level of support. Max Ave How to get in Self or ncy referrals. Contact by phone to check vacancies and give initial details (9.30am-5.30pm Mon- Fri) or write. If appropriate, form completed by applicant and referral ncy. Interview. Visit to project to meet existing residents. How often is there vacancies Infrequent. Total spaces 18 In 3 properties. Cost per week Single: 18 at pw required Public transport MIND in Haringey - Milton Park 88 Milton Park N6 5PZ People with enduring mental health needs wanting to live independently in the community. Priority is given to those with a local connection to LB Haringey. People whose main support need is not a mental health issue. Those with a history of arson or physical violence Self or ncy referrals. Initial contact by phone to check vacancies. Application form, assessment, interview and visit to project. Require medical, psychiatric and social reports, discharge summary, risk assessment where applicable. Infrequent. No 8 Single: 8 at pw required Highgate tube - 10 minutes walk. Buses: 43, 134, minutes walk. Moullin House Mount Park Road W5 2RT Students d with low or no support needs. Can also accept older students or young people who are working or doing training courses if there are spaces. Currently unable to accept those on benefits Self referrals. Phone, drop-in (8.30am-12 noon Mon-Sat) or write for application form. If there are no places available, placed on Once a place is offered must pay deposit of 150. Require proof of ID. Monthly. Waiting list of up to 6 people. 46 Single: 42 at bed: 2 at 98 After first 4 weeks, rent is reduced to 115 and 90 Ealing Broadway tube - 5 Mount Carmel 12 Aldrington Road Streatham SW16 1TH People with alcohol problems who have stopped drinking and "wish to recover in abstinence". Must be committed to abstinence from alcohol and drugs. People who are still drinking. Those with a significant history of nonalcohol related violent criminal behaviour. 18 None 45 Self or ncy referrals. Write or phone (8am-7.30pm Mon- Fri). Referral form completed by applicant. Initial assessment of suitability, then informal interview, visit to house and discussion of the programme. Varies. Operate a 18 Single: 18 at 430 Registered Care Home. Streatham Common or Streatham train stations. Tooting Bec and Broadway tubes. Oak Lodge c/o 11 Alexandra Road Wimbledon SW19 7JZ People with a history of drug use, who have completed a full detox programme and who require intensive support. Can accept those with alcohol problems, providing they are primarily drug users. Those with a history of violence, sexual offences or arson may be refused admission following assessment by staff. 18 None 29 Self or ncy referrals. Write or phone (10am-6pm Mon-Fri) to give initial details. If appropriate, appointment for assessment interview. Require NI number, MG16 and psychiatric reports if appropriate. Place offered subject to local authority funding. Monthly. waiting list of several weeks bed: 7 at 546 Registered Care Home. Clients under 25 pay 25.90pw, over 25 pay 37.85pw. Project: East Putney tube and Putney Bridge rail station - 7 Project 85 c/o 11 Alexandra Road Wimbledon SW19 7JZ People with drug or alcohol misuse problems who have completed a 1st st rehabilitation programme of at least 12 weeks duration in the last 2 years. Priority given to those leaving any Cranstoun Drug Services rehabilitation program. People with a history of offences related to arson, violence or sexual offences. Those not eligible for housing benefit. 18 None 30 Self or ncy referrals. All referrals taken centrally via head office - number given above. Phone (Mon-Fri 10am- 6pm) or write. Assessment interview. Monthly. Operate waiting list. 13 Single: 1 at bed: 6 at Approx 5.06pw required from residents on benefits. Project: Tooting Bec tube - 2 Bus: 219.

20 Project Who it s for Will not accept Min Religious of Mary Immaculate Southwell Gardens SW7 4RL Young working women and students d Max Ave Women on benefits How to get in Self referrals. Phone, call in (Mon-Fri 9am-12 noon, 4.30pm-7pm) or write. Application form. Interview with Sister-in-Charge. Require parent's address and background information. How often is there vacancies Varies. Waiting list of 2-3 people. Total spaces Cost per week 68 Single: 18 at 96 2 bed: 19 at 81 3 bed: 4 at 70 Public transport Gloucester Road tube - 5 Buses: 49, 74. Richmond Fellowship - Amadeus House 18 Corfton Road W5 2HT People with mental health problems d Applicants with a history of drug use must be drug free for at least 3 months, those with alcohol problems must be "dry" for at least 6 months at time of referral. Those with eating disorders Self or ncy referrals. Phone (9am-5pm Mon-Fri). Application form. Require social and psychiatric reports, risk assessments and guarantee of funding. Informal visit, 28 day formal stay. Existing residents consulted about who is accepted. Infrequently. Operate occasional waiting list of 8-12 weeks. 13 Single: 13 at 1400 RCH. Flat rate includes cost of forensic clients. Ealing Broadway train and tube or North Ealing tube - 10 mins walk. Buses - 10 mins walk. Rugby House - Agar St Augustine's 71 Agar Grove NW1 9UE People with primary alcohol misuse problems who wish to participate in an abstinence based rehabilitation treatment programme. People with a long history of violence. Convicted sex offenders. Those with severe mental health problems unable to cope with level of support offered by the project Self or ncy referrals. Phone for initial queries (- 10am-4pm). Interview date set within a week. May require additional supporting information. Applicants must have guarantee of placement funding through Social Services. Varies. Operate a 11 In 2 houses. Single: 11 at Residents receive an allowance for food. Servite Houses Kemplay Road c/o 48 Wandsworth Common Northside SW18 2SL Shenehom 31 Ranelagh Avenue Barnes SW13 0BN Young single women d with low support needs who are in housing need, particularly those on a low income, first time visitors to and overseas students. People with mental health problems d 20-65, who require medium levels of support. Priority to those with a RB Richmond upon Thames connection. Those unable to live independently with only low support from the project. People with a history of violence or those with an alcohol or drug problem Self or ncy referrals. Write or phone for an application form. Application forms and phone queries are made to lettings office (number above). Interview Self or ncy referrals. Phone (9am-5pm Mon-Fri) or write. Informal visit, application form. Formal assessment interview. Meal at the house and overnight trial stay. Require psychiatric and social reports. Infrequent. Infrequently. short 15 Single: 15 at pw required from those in 13 2 buildings: 11 in main scheme, 2 in semiindepende nt unit. Single: 13 at Registered Care Home. Project: Hampstead tube and Hampstead Heath rail station - 5 Barnes and Barnes Bridge train stations. Buses: 33, 72, 209, 283. Sir Oswald Stoll Foundation 446 Fulham Road SW6 1DT Ex-service personnel, including those with a history of homelessness who need support. Accept people with physical disabilities, mental health and alcohol misuse issues. Can accept couples. Must have some independent living skills. Each application considered on a case by case basis. 18 Non 60 Self or named ncy referrals. Phone, call in (Mon-Fri 9am- 5pm) or write. Application form completed prior to interview. Require Ministry of Defence Service records and Social Services, Probation and psychiatric reports if applicable. Infrequently. waiting list of approx 2 years. 225 In 2 buildings. Flat: 225 at 105 Approx 15pw required from residents in receipt of benefits. Sir Oswald Stoll Mansions: Fulham Broadway tube. Westway Beacons: East Acton tube.