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Hostels and foyers

This content applies to England only.

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

Some hostels offer housing support to people who need some help to adapt to living independently. Foyers are a special kind of hostel offering support for young people.

What kind of support can hostels offer?

Many hostels that offer long-term accommodation also provide support to residents to help them move out of hostel accommodation and into their own homes. This support can take the form of:

counselling and advice
support in developing independent living skills, such as budgeting or cooking
help claiming benefits
help accessing education, employment or training
help finding permanent accommodation
additional support once you have moved into a new tenancy.

Some hostels also offer move-on accommodation in 'satellite flats'. These are shared or individual flats where you can live independently but still receive help and advice from a support worker.

How do I apply?

Longer-term hostels usually have waiting lists or will only accept referrals from certain agencies, such as a housing aid centre or the council's social services department. They are often for specific groups of people, for example, young homeless people or people with particular problems, such as mental health issues or alcohol dependency.

They are run by various organisations, including charities, housing associations and local authorities. To find out about hostels in your area, contact the social services department at your council or use our advice services directory. Further information is also available from Homeless UK, or by calling Shelter's free housing advice helpline on 0808 800 4444.

What is a foyer?

Foyers offer affordable accommodation for young people aged 16-25 who are homeless or in housing need. They combine a secure living environment with help and support, and access to work and learning opportunities.

More information, please see the section on foyers.

How do I apply for foyer accommodation?

You can contact your nearest foyer directly, or ask to be referred by the council, a social worker, or a housing aid centre. The foyer will arrange an entrance interview for you. Most foyers have waiting lists, so it's a good idea to get help with your application to make sure you have a good chance of being accepted.

If you are offered a place, you will be asked to sign an agreement covering all aspects of your residence, including a commitment to remain involved in training, employment or education during the length of your stay, which will normally last from nine months to a year.