Domestic abuse and becoming homeless
If domestic abuse means you cannot stay in your home safely, contact us as soon as possible.
If you are in immediate danger, call 999.
Find emergency help, specialist support and local and national domestic abuse services on Get domestic abuse support.
If you need to leave home
You may need to leave your home quickly to stay safe.
If you can, get housing advice before giving up your home permanently. This can help you understand your options and avoid losing housing rights you may still have.
If you need somewhere safe to stay, you may be able to:
- stay temporarily with friends or relatives
- access a refuge
- get help with emergency or temporary accommodation
Not everyone will qualify for emergency accommodation. We will assess your situation and explain what help may be available.
If you want to stay in your home
You may not need to leave your home permanently.
Depending on your situation, there may be ways to help you remain in your home safely. Find out more about specialist support and safety options on Get domestic abuse support.
Get homelessness help from us
If you cannot stay in your home because of domestic abuse, you can ask us for homelessness help.
We may:
- assess your housing situation and support needs
- help you find somewhere safe to stay
- explain your housing options
- work with other services where needed
We may ask you for information about your situation, including details of incidents and any supporting evidence you have. You can bring a friend, support worker or adviser with you.
You may also want to apply for a housing association home as a longer-term option.
Find out how to apply for social housing.
Help from children’s services or social care
Some people may also be able to get help from children’s services or social care, for example if you:
- have children living with you
- are under 18
- have left care or are about to leave care
- are in poor health
- have a physical or learning disability
- need extra support because of your age or circumstances