Can anybody tell me about getting a council house?

[SingleMumAndProud]

I moved to a privatly rented house with my husband in April in a new area away from all my friends and family. Only to split up soon after.

I think I want to move back to my old area. I want a house that he has never lived in. I want to be close to everybody I know

I can only really do this if I get a Council House, but don't know where to start. I know they are so busy - do I even stand a chance of getting one?

I am on benefits with a 1 year old and 2 year old. Have a contract here till April anyway.

Does anybody know what I need to do?

Wait about 15 years I think.

If you go to your local council office they will tell you, there's a form and a huge waiting list where people 'bid' for a property depending upon how many 'points' they have, the council give points on a criteria (homeless get the most points, overcrowded next etc). I'd look for a private property as you have little chance of getting a council property by April, it does depend on your area though so good luck.

It will probably be very hard as the council will class you as having a suitable home.
You are welcome to put yourself on the housing list but to get priority you will have to have a really good reason for needing it.
I think your best bet would be to go to the housing office and speak to someone in person rather than over the phone as face to face seems to work better.
Also visit the CAB as they may be able to help -good luck.

The CAB will tell you exactly the same as I have as I used to volunteer there. There's no harm in filling the form in, there's a serious lack of social housing though and as you are already housed, it's in good repair, not overcrowded and you are not disabled and in need of suitable housing for your disability then you would be very low down on the list.

very low indeed.....maybe ask the council if they o the rent asistance scheme?

Am I being a bit stupid or couldn't you get a private rent paid for by housing benefit in your preferred area?

That would be LHA - Local Housing Allowance. This mean HB but for provate landlords. The only way you'd get priority is by having a famoily connection in the area or if you declared your self homeless in apr and went to live in a shelter, which I don't think you will like to do with two little one's.

I know a family who have just been awarded a 3-bedroom social house after waiting 9 years!!!