Potential homelessness

[Evi19]

I’m currently living in York but may become homeless with my young child due to issue in my private rental. I’ve been in touch with the council and they are going to call me this week to go through a homelessness/housing options assessment form. Does anyone have any experience with this or know what they may ask or need to go through with me? Feeling anxious about it all

I hope you find somewhere soon for you and your little one.

Which bit are you anxious about ?

the potential homelessness
or
the call from housing

they will ask

1. what is the issue in your private renal
2. have you been served a section 21
3. are the bailiffs due ( much further along than a Section 21 )
4. have YOU given your notice to Landlord
5. they should then explain how they can possibly help you
6. they will tell you how you can help yourself i.e. find a new private rental

I used to work in homelessness prevention and have supported clients at those interviews.

The questions are all pretty straightforward and factual and the information gathered is to help them decide whether they have a statutory duty to help you. It explores things like has a S.21 been issued (and if so, has it been done correctly), how long you've lived in the council area, reason for becoming homeless, size of family (including age and sex of children) etc.

It will help if you can give dates and addresses for the last few places you've lived, make sure you know what documents you were given when you signed your tenancy, have the landlord's address handy etc. Iirc, they ask some financial questions, too, so have your last couple of bank statements handy. Also make sure you have a copy of the S21 notice (if it's been issued) and any paperwork relating to possession proceedings if the LL has applied for possession.

Sorry, pressed "post" too soon!

If you or anyone in your household has any health issues or special needs that make them more vulnerable, make a note of those beforehand, too.

I hope it goes well for you, facing homelessness is a horrible thing.