Emergency housing

This content applies to England only.

Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. This page applies to England only. Get advice relating to Scotland

If you need a place for tonight, there are a number of different options. But in many areas, there is not enough emergency housing available and it may be difficult to get a place.

An adviser may be able to help you, as many accommodation providers will accept referrals from them. A local advice centre can also check whether you are entitled to help from the council. Use our directory to find one.

How Shelter can help

Getting advice from Shelter could help you to keep your current home, ensure you get the help you are entitled to and/or help you find emergency accommodation. Read more 

How the council can help

Local councils have a legal responsibility to provide temporary accommodation for certain groups of people. Read more 

Hostels and nightshelters

Find out what hostels and nightshelters are like, and how to get a place in one. Read more 

Bed and breakfast hotels

You may be able to stay in a B&B while you sort out longer term accommodation. Read more 

Staying with friends

Staying with friends can be a good solution, particularly if you need a stopgap and a place to stay immediately. But it doesn't give you many rights. Read more 

Women's refuges

Women may be able to get a place in a refuge if they have to leave home because of violence or threats. Read more 

Nightstop schemes

Some areas have Nightstop schemes, which can arrange emergency housing for the night for people aged 16 to 25. Read more