Benefits and working
This content applies to England only.
Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. Get advice relating to Scotland
Even if you don't have an address, you still have a right to claim benefit. You will get it if you are eligible. Advice on benefits is available from specialist organisations. Some agencies can help you to find work or get on a training course.
Benefits
If you need money in an emergency, you may be able to apply for a social fund crisis loan from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). The DWP used to be called the DSS (Department of Social Security). You will have to repay the loan over time from your benefits.
The DWP pays benefits to people who are out of work. These include:
If you are unable to work because of illness or disability there are benefits available, such as incapacity benefit.
The rules on benefits are complicated. It is a good idea to get advice about making a claim. Many agencies that help people sleeping on the streets have staff that know about benefits. They will be able to tell you which benefit to claim and help you to claim it. Use the Advice Services Directory to find agencies in your area.
If you do not have a permanent address, you can use a care of address such as a friend, relative or day centre.
If you are already getting benefit, you can continue to do so. You will have to give the DWP a care of address or you can collect your giro from the DWP office.
Work and training
People sleeping on the streets may find it harder to stay in work or to get a job.
The Jobcentre should still help you to look for work. It may be a requirement of claiming benefit that you are actively seeking work. If you are disabled, this may not apply to you.
Some agencies have staff to help people sleeping on the streets look for work, and some have training schemes.
