Quick summary
If you need emergency housing tonight, contact your local council first — they have a legal duty to help. You can also call Shelter's free helpline on 0808 800 4444. This guide walks you through every step.
Step 1 — Contact your local council
Go to your local council's housing department or call them directly. Under the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017, councils in England have a legal duty to help anyone who is homeless or at risk of homelessness within 56 days. Ask for the "housing options" or "homelessness" team. If it's out of hours, most councils have an emergency housing line.
Step 2 — What to bring
Most councils will ask for identification, but they cannot refuse to help you solely because you lack it. Here's what helps:
- Any photo ID (passport, driving licence, or national ID card)
- If no photo ID — a utility bill, bank statement, or NHS letter with your name
- Proof of address or last known address if possible
- Medications (keep them in original packaging if possible)
- Any documents relating to your housing situation (eviction notice, tenancy agreement)
Know your rights
Under the Homelessness Reduction Act 2017, your council must carry out a personalised housing needs assessment and produce a personalised housing plan. If you feel you are being turned away unfairly, call Shelter on 0808 800 4444 (free) or contact Citizens Advice immediately.
Step 3 — When you arrive at the shelter
You'll be asked to complete an intake assessment. This is normal — it helps staff understand your situation and connect you to the right services. You'll be shown the house rules (quiet hours, storage, etc.) and assigned a key worker who can help you plan next steps.
Step 4 — What happens next
Emergency accommodation is usually short-term. Ask your key worker or council case officer about longer-term options such as supported housing, private rented sector access schemes, or the council housing register. Getting on the housing register early is important — waiting lists can be long.
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