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. Use our directory to find one.
You can also use our emergency housing rights checker to check whether you are entitled to help from the council.
Hostels and nightshelters
Find out what hostels and nightshelters are like, and how to get a place in one. 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
Bed and breakfast hotels
You may be able to stay in a B&B while you sort out longer term accommodation. 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
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
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
