You don't have to be sleeping on the streets or not have a roof over your head to be considered homeless. Under Homelessness legislation, there are many situations where the council may have a legal duty to help you with housing. For example:
you're at risk of losing your home
you're at risk of violence or abuse where you are living. This can be from a partner, ex-partner or family member, or someone in your area
you do not have 'a roof over your head' i.e. you are street homeless
you cannot afford to stay where you are
your accommodation is very temporary
you are staying with friends or 'sofa surfing'
you've been locked out or illegally evicted
your accommodation is in very poor condition
you cannot live together with your partner or close family
you have nowhere to put your houseboat or caravan
If one or more of these apply, you may be eligible for help from the council.
Becoming homeless is often a difficult experience and is best avoided if at all possible. If you are threatened with homelessness, you need to focus your attention on the situation immediately to give you the best chance of preventing homelessness.
If you are aware of someone sleeping rough in Southend, please refer them for support using www.streetlink.org.uk
