Welfare Reform on the Web (January 2004): Homelessness - UK

HOMELESSNESS (SUITABILITY OF ACCOMMODATION) (ENGLAND) ORDER 2003: GUIDANCE

Office of the Deputy Prime Minister

2003

Local authorities may accommodate homeless families in bed and breakfast hotels for a maximum of six weeks if no alternative temporary accommodation is available.

YOUR PLACE, NOT MINE: THE EXPERIENCES OF HOMELESS PEOPLE STAYING WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS

D. Robinson with S. Coward

London: Crisis, 2003

Homeless people staying with family and friends tend to be younger than other homeless people and the majority are single. Women and certain minority ethnic groups are over-represented. Most people stay with family and friends on first becoming homeless, due to lack of alternatives and limited awareness of available options. The report reveals that staying with family and friends is highly insecure, with unsuitable and hazardous living conditions. Recommendations are made about interventions required to limit the reliance of so many homeless people on family and friends, as well as how friends and relatives might be better supported to provide suitable and secure accommodation.