To lie to letting agents about having a job?

[ohshitwhatamIgoingtodo]

I've just received notice to leave my flat as my landlords are retiring and want to sell up.

Thing is, I am not working at the moment and so many letting agencies are saying they will not accept people on benefits. Would I be unreasonable to say that I am a student (which is true), that I earn a bit from being self employed part time and that I also receive maintenance from my ex partner (we have a DD together and that bit is also true)? Otherwise I think I'm in the shit and don't know what to do? I know there is a massive queue for council houses and don't think I really want one anyway (I am looking for work so hope I won't be unemployed for ages).

Contact Shelter. They have case workers for people in your position, and if you have a child you are a priority for housing.

I do understand the temptation, but the reality is that if you did this you'd probably be caught out, as has been said. Call Shelter and see what their advice is - none of us really knows what you should do, I don't think, as the position varies depending on where you live.

If you're offered a decent council place though, I would bite their arm off for it.